So I’m 37 years behind the times — sue me. I wasn’t even born when this book was written (1970) let alone when it won both the Hugo and the Nebula awards for best novel. Now, at least, I can say I’ve read it. However, I didn’t consider it a great novel, nor does it land in my top 20-30 favourites.

Yeah you heard me... It Sucked with a capital S... At least in comparison to the reputation it had built up before I got around to reading it.

Ever since I began reading Science Fiction (15 years ago), I've loved the classics. My primary source for finding "what to read next" is the Hugo and Nebula award nominations going back 50 years. Rarely have I been disappointed. When something WINS both awards, it's always been a sure thing that I'll love it too. This was untrue for Ringworld, and the streak is now broken.

As far as I can tell Ringworld won because of the collection of new, never-before-seen (then) ideas contained in this book. The numerous flaws (insufficient character development, distracted story, etc.) were obviously over looked when the judging took place. Other award winners -- in my experience -- have needed both ideas and solid story telling to win.

Don't get me wrong, science fiction writers are an amazing idea factory, and they are desperately needed today more than ever. The fact that over the last 30 years many things have leapt off of the page to become reality is a testament to the inspirational nature of many of the stories in the genre. But to get enough people to read a story to make it reality the story actually needs to be great.

Ringworld however, is just a run of the mill adventure story with a few big ideas that don't get explained in enough detail to be really ground-breaking or prophetic. The characters are relatively thin, and the story is "too conveinient" compared to the other Hugo and Nebula winners.

If you haven't read it yet, but plan to, then read it with as many of your expectations deflated as possible. Maybe you won't be as disappointed as I was.

For my complete review, check out Ringworld on We Read Science Fiction.