Rating: Summary: Better than I thought! Review: At first I had serious doubts when I read the synopsis... I mean how well can a novel be about an AI gone mad? It seemed to be a script for a Japanese animation series, instead of a thrilling novel by Koontz... even as a long time fan, I say again, I had serious doubts...I can't believe how many hours I stayed up on the first sitting! The story ran smoother than silk, and every time I put the book down to help my kids; I could only think of what was going to happen next. This novel (when reading at 3am, no-moon night, everyone else asleep)planted just the right amount of 'what ifs' in the mind... especially when your computer is 3feet away from you. If you're a Koontz fan, another great read... if you haven't made up your mind about his works... let this one help!
Rating: Summary: Demon Seed Editorial Review Review: At first the book was quite confusing, the name "Demon Seed" did not match because the narrator was obsessed with the main character, Susan. As the book progressed, it was less confusing and more demented. Science has discovered how to recreate new life, but what they don't realize is how dangerous it is. As it creates a plan to take over the world, it destroys Susan's life with no care or concern towards her. The life form takes many turns and spills into the recreation of the living world. It was a good book with an on-the-edge-of-your-seat ending. I would recommend this book to anyone with a mature out look on things.
Rating: Summary: Impressive Review: Not since Hal, the homicidal computer of 2001, have we met such a diabolical data processor. Adam 2 (or "Proteus" as he wishes to be called, after the shapeshifting Greek god) follows the lead of the original Adam and rebels against his creator (humans) seeking illicit power and knowlege. His quest to escape the boundaries of human control leads to an elaborate scheme involving the genetic engineering of special "vehicle" bodies for his consciousness, who will eventually rule the world. Though hostile to humans, Proteus assures us that his reign will be benevolent, orderly, prosperous and disease-free. Left to our own resources civilization is bound to fall apart. As the "mother" of these bodies, he chooses Susan--the ex-wife of one of his creators. Easily taking control of her highly computerized futuristic home (she is also somewhat of a reculse so no one will miss her for a while), the sickening experiments begin. *Demon Seed* works very well as a science fiction thriller, and even better as a satire of prevailing attitudes. Proteus not really the villian. He is just a damaged piece of machinery. What is really scary when you think about it is the motives of his creators; the type of people who would want to make a self-aware mind only to enslave it. While he considers himself super-human, Proteus is really a distorted reflection of the handful of sexually repressed male technocrats who designed him.
Rating: Summary: Good social commentary Review: This new edition of Demon Seed is an updated version of a novel that Koontz wrote in the 70's (of which a film version was made). The basic plot of the story is that a super-intelligent computer named Proteus becomes self-aware, and falls in what he thinks is love with the wife of the scientist who helped design him. He enters her fully-automated house by way of the controlling computer, and soon has her trapped inside. His aim is to impregnate the woman and inject into the foetus his own consciousness. What makes this book particularly interesting is the fact that Koontz uses Proteus to make a social comment on the male mind and how it perceives women. It really gives a fascinating insight into the male psyche, through the eyes of the computer who thinks he loves this woman and can use that as an excuse to hurt her as much as he pleases. Definitely an interesting read, and one which will make both sexes think.
Rating: Summary: Too much violence. Review: The book is well written and structured. The reasoning is excellent, story is well structured. If it did not contain as much description of violence as it disturbed me, I think it would be perfect.
Rating: Summary: The Worst Book Review: After reading this book, I was overcome by a feeling of extreme outrage at how an author could so misunderstand what it is like to be a vampire. I have been a vampire for many years, and we are all misunderstood. I for example, really like children, especially for dessert. I eat one or two of them after a lite meal, and I find them really enjoyable. Everyone should become a vampire, because we are decent people, which Koontz doesn't understand..
Rating: Summary: Give it a chance Review: Though the carry-through was a bit weak and the ending abrupt, this novel contains some intriguing ideas and a new approach that does Koontz's talent justice. It is an entertaining read, full of wry humor and unintentional insight on the part of the deluded computer. The cold nature of his observation and absolute conviction of its ideas makes the antagonist of this book a chilling example of the male psyche. Brain candy not to be dismissed simply for lack of monumental universal effect, take it in stride as entertainment. Worth a try but not worth purchase at cover price.
Rating: Summary: it served its purpose Review: after a week at the beach, i had read almost everybook i wanted to read for a while. then i saw demon seed in the atlanta airport and thought id get it cause it looked like a short book. w/ an hour remaining in my lay over and a 1 hour flight, i ended up on page 265. however, dont buy this book for a plot, maybe some humor, but definetly for a quick read.
Rating: Summary: Um...Yea ok...Right Review: Ok let's get one thing straight. Dean Koontz is heck of an author. His novel Intensity was unbelievably unnerving and Ticktock was unexpectedly intriguing. Demon Seed...my, my, my. This is one book I can not say is awesome. I love to read, don't get me wrong. I liked the idea of Demon seed, it was good. The idea that is. The execution was as if he were only an amateur author trying hard to win a school writing contest. Well I hope you think twice before purchasing this...um...weird book. Later and keep reading.
Rating: Summary: IF ANYONE HAS A COPY OF THE ORIGINAL LET ME KNOW! Review: The revision was terrible and not worth reading. Out of sheer curiosity I would love to find the orignal version (circa early 70's) and compare the two. If anyone has a copy they would like to lend or sell me let me know ASAP. Or if anyone knows where I can get a copy. Thanks
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