John Scalzi

[Alexander the Pretty Good]

I've now read a few of his books, and found them all pretty entertaining. Old Man's War and it's universe feels a bit like Starship Troopers without less philosophy. Andriod's Dream was just a fun read. And you can find Agent to the Stars online, free of charge.

Anyone heard of him or read something by him?

[Marshal Murat]

I've read Old Man's War and Ghost Brigades.

I liked them as books. They weren't too wordy, simple, leaving alot to imagination (good thing). It wasn't trying to force a messages down your throat, and overall a pretty decent read. Compared to the other book I've read (Clone Republic by Steven Kent), I got alot more from Scalzi.

[Lemur]

I've read a Old Man's War and Ghost Brigades. Both were solid books, although I thought the first was superior.

Old Man's War was an explicit riff on Starship Troopers, so it's not surprising you felt similarities.

He's a really good author, and I look forward to seeing what he puts out next. Good find, AtPG.

[TinCow]

I have also read Old Man's War and Ghost Brigades. I enjoyed the first one a great deal, but the sequel I found to be rather mundane. My wife is a big fan of his, though, and is currently reading Andriod's Dream. I'll probably get around to it myself eventually.

Overall, my impression (after 2 books) is that he is a decent 'entertainment' Scifi author. He's not Aasimov or Heinlein; he's not going to wow you with something deep and meaningful. It's just fun reading in a different world.

[aimlesswanderer]

I've read the 3 in the Old Man's War series, and they were certainly a fun read. Not deep and thoughtful but definitely kept me interested.

[Lemur]

If you want a current author who will really freak your brain out, I would recommend Charles Stross. His book Accelerando is pretty outrageous, and the two Lovecraft-meets-James-Bond books are hilarious.

I can't think of a fresher, more unique author in SF right now.

[Alexander the Pretty Good]

Cool, there are some books by Stross at my library. I'll check them out.

[Alexander the Pretty Good]

Just finished the Atrocity Archives. Excellent stuff, though I probably shouldn't have stayed up till 2 in the morning to finish it.

[Lemur]

Great book, isn't it? The sequel is The Jennifer Morgue, and it's got its own brand of fun. Glad I could tip you off to a great new author!