Exhalation by Ted Chiang

 

Ted Chiang is known for his science fiction/fantasy short stories.  In Exhalation, nine of his stories are collected, two of which have never been published before.  There is a story about the parrots of Puerto Rico and how they long to communicate with humans.  A story about software beings who are given life brings up the idea of freedom and whether any being has the right to determine the life of another.  A third story explores the functions of the brain and how it works to give us consciousness.

Ted Chiang graduated with a computer science degree and still works in the industry.  This background allows his stories to be based in the most up to date discoveries in the field and allows him to talk with authority on topics like artificial intelligence.  His work has garnered awards such as multiple Hugo and Nebula awards and this book was a New York Times Best Book Of The Year.  This book is recommended for readers of science fiction and those interested in anthologies.