Rating: 
Summary: Read This Book -- Then Give It To Bill Gates
Review: Having just finished re-reading The Truth Machine, I'm as excited as I was the first time I read it. The future that James Halperin puts forward is one that I would be happy to live in. Unfortunately I don't think that any government in the world (I live in Australia) would be altruistic enough to support its development let alone legislating its use. If it's going to happen at all it's going to take a "Pete" Armstrong; an extremely wealthy individual who is basically "good". This person doesn't necessarily have to have Pete's intellect but he's going to need a bucketload of cash. I wonder if Mr. Halperin has sent a copy of his book to Bill Gates or Paul Allen? Bob
Rating:
Summary: Thought fertilizer
Review: This book is my favorite type of speculative fiction. It's a story about something that completely changes the way the world works. All the variables are redefined, and the characters are forced to adjust accordingly. Books of this nature always seem to be the ones I enjoy most -- perhaps because I love the thoughts they spawn and the philosophies they help me to form. Before reading _The Truth Machine_, I was awestruck by two other novels, _Replay_ by Ken Grimwood, and _Jumper_ by Steven Gould. Coincidentally, all three of these novels were written by first-time authors, just like James Halperin.Character development in books of this type is one of the most important elements, and I was very pleased that even though there are quite a few major characters in _The Truth Machine_, Halperin managed to develop each one in great detail. I was able to anticipate and understand the thoughts and actions of the characters, which is a certain indicator that they were very well-developed. I also found the writing style to be very enjoyable. One of the reviews here criticized the style, although I can't quite see why. I found it to be an excellent balance between ease of reading and complexity of the ideas expressed. The computer's narration and the occasional footnotes made it even more enjoyable. In terms of plot, I couldn't have been more pleased. The plot was very solid and moved fast enough to keep me interested, yet slow enough that all the interesting details were relayed. I was even more impressed with the predictions however, as I'll bet many people are. Excepting a few minor cases that I'd disagree with merely because I tend to be slightly more of a pessimist than an optimist, the predictions, and even the dates, seemed so realistic that I almost found myself thinking that this book was, in fact, an actual historical document. Like the other two books I mentioned, _The Truth Machine_ has provided me with truckloads of thought fertilizer, and I honestly believe (no pun!) that I will think about life somewhat differently now that I've read it. Even now, I find myself analyzing my words to make sure I'm being as truthful as possible in relating my opinions of the book! I think I've been completely honest, but an ACIP probably wouldn't hurt things. ;) I'll be taking a few nights off for some much-needed rest, and then I'll start on _The First Immortal_ right away. I can't wait to see what *it* does to my thoughts.
Rating: 
Summary: Pretty Bad
Review: This author has launched an all-out assault on the English language and is bent on giving Science Fiction a bad name. Good idea but poor writing and weak characters sink this derelect. A real waste, even worse than First Immortal (if possible).
Rating:
Summary: This is a great book!
Review: This is probably the single most thought-provoking book I've read since "1984". The characters and plot line intertwine brilliantly, and the subject is so fascinating that the applications are limitless. I've read it three times, and it just gets better!
Rating:
Summary: It's a great book!
Review: I've had Truth Machine for awhile but just got around to reading it -- and couldn't put it down. I teach university-level courses in criminology and public administration. This book would be an excellent text for any class where ethics or punishment vs. rehabilitation is involved.
Rating:
Summary: Wonderful - easy to read yet incredibly insightful!!!!!!
Review: I happened upon The Truth Machine in the backpages of Farenheit 451. The book is truly in the same category, and really should be required reading. I am currently reading The First Immortal, and have not been dissappointed!
Rating:
Summary: Best book I've ever read
Review: This book changed my whole view of society. I think I am a better person for having read it, and I can't wait to get ahold of some more books by this wonderful author. It is weird to think it, but he may rival Neal Stephenson in profundity.
Rating:
Summary: Vivid characters and tremendous insight into tomorrow!
Review: Read it in two days while on vacation. It was my first science fiction book, and I loved it. Now reading The First Immortal, the author's other book. Easy to read and follow. The characters are so real, and the style lifts you into their world. Absolute must read for anyone who likes to read not just sci-fi, but great stories as well.
Rating:
Summary: A thought-provoker
Review: I think this book should be required reading for everyone on the planet. Halperin manages to tackle 40 different social and psychological issues and comes up with ramifications, viable solutions and conflicts for each one. And he does it very entertainingly.
Rating:
Summary: Definitely one of my favorites of all time.
Review: Ok... I actually read this book about a year ago... and could not get it out of my mind, so i had to read it again last night. I dont know what it is about this book that just captured my imagination. It's so creative and unique.
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