Rating: Summary: Intersting, amusing, but not up to his normal standards. Review: A collection of "second string" stories, which seem to have been written more for SR's amusement than our own. Interesting diversions, but not compelling. Still, it's a must for Spider Robinson fans, because it gives some wonderful insights into his life and writing.
Rating: Summary: Intersting, amusing, but not up to his normal standards. Review: A collection of "second string" stories, which seem to have been written more for SR's amusement than our own. Interesting diversions, but not compelling. Still, it's a must for Spider Robinson fans, because it gives some wonderful insights into his life and writing.
Rating: Summary: Damn good Review: First book of Spider's i have read. I lost y first copy and bought another 'cause it was so good. Lots of good short stories, and some essays that were also good. I didn't care for his poetry that much. Well, never have cared for poetry much.-Burgain
Rating: Summary: Pass on this one, or use it to balance a wobbly table Review: I can't believe he gets compared to Heinlein. The statements on the outside cover are the most interesting fiction in or on the book. The very first story is enough to make sure most readers think this guy has nothing interesting, informative or uplifting to communicate. Let's rewrite the quote that should be on the outside of the book.
"..a pure and simple waste of time and paper."
If you want to read a good book try James H. Schmitz.
Rating: Summary: No Frills Robinson philosophy. Lacking Entertainment value. Review: I have enjoyed thoroughly most of Mr. Robinson's works. Sadly, not User Friendly. I prefer my philosophy disguised in a story line. For once, I am glad I bought the paperback. Another timewaster like this and I'll have to find another favorite author.
Rating: Summary: Idea-Filled Stories About Delightful People Review: I've read nearly all of Spider Robinson's work, and it seems to have two constants: Fascinating ideas and characters who are both ferociously intelligent *and* genuinely nice. _User Friendly_ is no exception. Being singletons, these stories don't give the same emotional satisfaction as (say) another visit to Callahan's or Lady Sally's, but on their own terms they're both thought-provoking and full of undisguised affection for the human race and its various members. I invariably put down a Spider Robinson book with a wide grin, a racing mind, and a more optimistic outlook on life and its possibilities. If that ain't good value for your six bucks plus shipping, I don't know what is . . . Fair Warning: DO NOT read the back-cover blurb, in which an unspeakable copywriter at Baen Books gives away crucial parts of two stories and the entire point of a third.
Rating: Summary: Classic Spider Review: If you like Spider Robinsons' short stories, then this collection of tall tales is for you! Vintage Spider from cover to cover!
Rating: Summary: Intersting, amusing, but not up to his normal standards. Review: Some really good short stories, solid writing. But what really caught my attention was the essays. They are informative and entertaining, I was pleasantly surprised to find them in the book. The author reveals much about his style and how it was developed. You are given an opportunity to learn why Spider writes the way he does. For the stories alone this book was worth the $8.00, the essays give it far more value. Keep 'em coming.
Rating: Summary: A book no wanabee writer should be without Review: Some really good short stories, solid writing. But what really caught my attention was the essays. They are informative and entertaining, I was pleasantly surprised to find them in the book. The author reveals much about his style and how it was developed. You are given an opportunity to learn why Spider writes the way he does. For the stories alone this book was worth the $8.00, the essays give it far more value. Keep 'em coming.
Rating: Summary: Its a good book Review: This is a good book it has some really great stories in it. Spider added some really great poetry to some wonderful stories.
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