The Lifecycle of Software Objects by Ted Chiang is a charming (if depressing) story of virtual pets who are trained to be cute companions, but when the fad fades โ after layoffs and knockoffs โ it turns out you can train them up over the years to have intelligence and an understanding of the world. Yes, like children. Hilarity does not ensue, but it’s a well-enough-written story that felt realistic. If anything, I’d have appreciated a little less realism โ I’m already familiar with all the depressive reality of the software industry, and I’d like something more in my reading.
I'm currently behind on reviews, so don't be surprised if the recent reviews are a bit sparse.