Discover books similar to "The Years of Rice and Salt"

Kim Stanley Robinson

The Years of Rice and Salt

3.74

"The Years of Rice and Salt" by Kim Stanley Robinson is an alternate history novel that explores a world where the Black Death of the 14th century has wiped out the majority of the European population, rather than the actual historical outcome. This leaves the stage open for the civilizations of Asia, Africa, and the Americas to dominate the world stage. The novel follows a series of characters over the course of a thousand years, from the 14th century to the 23rd, as they are reincarnated in different lives and cultures. This allows the reader to see the world through the eyes of a Chinese bureaucrat, a Japanese samurai, a Sub-Saharan African merchant, a Native American healer, and many others. The result is a rich and diverse tapestry of human experience that highlights the commonalities and differences between cultures. Robinson's world-building is meticulous and immersive, with each culture and time period feeling fully realized and authentic. The novel explores themes of history, culture, religion, and identity, as well as the role of technology and progress in shaping society. One of the most striking aspects of "The Years of Rice and Salt" is its exploration of the concept of "dharmic evolution," a Buddhist-inspired idea that posits that history is cyclical and that civilizations rise and fall according to their adherence to certain principles of harmony and balance. This provides a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the rise and fall of civilizations throughout history. Overall, "The Years of Rice and Salt" is a sweeping and ambitious work of alternate history that offers a fresh and compelling perspective on the course of human history. Its immersive world-building, diverse cast of characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a must-read for fans of speculative fiction and historical fiction alike...

List of books similar to "The Years of Rice and Salt":

William Gibson

The Difference Engine

Set in a Victorian era where Charles Babbage's mechanical computer became a reality, this novel is a thrilling steampunk adventure that shares 'The Years of Rice and Salt''s fascination with historical what-ifs.

Learn More

Michael Chabon

The Yiddish Policemen's Union

In this novel, Chabon creates an alternate history where Jewish refugees from Europe established a temporary state in Alaska. A murder mystery with a unique setting, it will appeal to readers who enjoyed the rich world-building in 'The Years of Rice and Salt'.

Learn More

Guy Gavriel Kay

The Lions of Al-Rassan

Kay's novel, set in a world reminiscent of medieval Spain, features a complex tapestry of cultures and religions at war. Fans of 'The Years of Rice and Salt' will appreciate the intricate plotting and thoughtful exploration of history and faith.

Learn More

Rosemary Kirstein

The Steerswoman

This is a series about a steerswoman, a member of an order of explorers and scientists, who discovers a mysterious artifact and sets off on a journey to uncover its origins. Fans of 'The Years of Rice and Salt' will enjoy the blend of adventure, history, and scientific inquiry.

Learn More

Mary Doria Russell

The Sparrow

A thought-provoking novel about a Jesuit mission to another planet, 'The Sparrow' explores themes of faith, culture clash, and the consequences of exploration. Fans of 'The Years of Rice and Salt' will appreciate its nuanced portrayal of cultural encounters.

Learn More

Connie Willis

The Doomsday Book

In this time-travel novel, a historian from the future travels back to the 14th century during the time of the Black Death. Fans of 'The Years of Rice and Salt' will enjoy the detailed historical research and the exploration of the impact of historical events on individuals.

Learn More

Mary Robinette Kowal

The Calculating Stars

Set in an alternate history where a meteorite hits Earth in the 1950s, this novel follows a mathematician and pilot as she fights for women's rights and space exploration. Fans of 'The Years of Rice and Salt' will appreciate the historical reimagining and the focus on underrepresented perspectives.

Learn More

Alix E. Harrow

The Ten Thousand Doors of January

A lyrical and enchanting novel about a young woman who discovers doors to other worlds, 'The Ten Thousand Doors of January' shares 'The Years of Rice and Salt''s sense of wonder and exploration of history and culture.

Learn More

N.K. Jemisin

The City We Became

In this urban fantasy, New York City comes to life as a sentient being, and its five protective avatars must battle against an ancient evil. Fans of 'The Years of Rice and Salt' will enjoy the imaginative world-building and exploration of cultural diversity.

Learn More