Stefan’s Reviews > Surface Detail > Status Update

if I was going to start reading some of Banks stuff, what would you suggest I start with? I really want to read this one but I don't know if it is a stand alone or if the culture novels are a series or what....?

The Culture novels are a series of standalone books - they're all set in the same universe, but can be read independently. I usually recommend reading them in order of publication though, because he does introduce some concepts gradually that'll make more sense if you go in order. However, most people consider the first book (Consider Phlebas) one of the weakest, if not THE weakest, of the bunch. I know some people who gave up on the series after reading that one, unfortunately. The next two, The Player of Games and Use of Weapons, are some of the best SF I've ever read. So, depending on how willing you are to deal with one slightly less brilliant book, I'd suggest starting with Consider Phlebas or The Player of Games. I haven't read all of the newest one yet so I can't say if it's a good place to start.

But, he's brilliant - one of my favorite SF writers - so do definitely try one of his books :)

Awesome! Thanks for the answer - its far more comprehensive than other's I've gotten. I appreciate that! I'll start with Consider Phlebas and move on from there.

Just promise me that you'll at least read The Player of Games if you're not terribly impressed by Consider Phlebas. I've lost a few Banks readers to that book. And then when you get to Use of Weapons - it's just awesome. Every time I recommend it I want to re-read it again :)

Oh, I promise. Maybe I'll start on that one instead of Consider Phlebas.

I'll also have to take this advice, having been underwhelmed by Consider Phlebas.

Ryan, given what I know of your tastes, I think you'll like Use of Weapons best. It's an amazing piece of writing. The Player of Games is great too, though. Hope you'll check them out!