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Cline, Ernest - Ready Player One - Start Date November 12th 2012
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Reading Schedule:
Date Chapters Pages PPQC
November 12 0 - 5 1 - 51
November 13 6 - 10 52 - 107
November 14 11 - 14 108 - 147
November 15 15 - 19 148 - 199
November 16 20 - 26 200 - 258
November 17 27 - 31 259 - 303
November 18 32 - 36 304 - 349
November 19 37 - end 350 - 374
Mary
Lisarenee
Barb
Kaitlin
Jex(?)
Nakita
Danielle
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Super excited for this one. I've been meaning to read it for a while now.
It sounds fun. I'm looking forward to it to. Do you have a copy? I'm trying to decide if this one or Seraphina will go first.
I keep hearing good things about this book, and it's been on my TBR list for what seems like forever. I'm going to try to work it into November's reading list!
If you grew up in the 80's you'll really appreciate this one.It was like a walk down memory lane.
I do not have a copy. I'm #67 in line at the library but might be able to get it from a friend if I need it sooner.
I'm looking forward to this one. I've got a copy and can read it whenever, but the beginning of the month might be busy as I will have just moved. If that's what works for everyone else, though, I can probably manage.
I'm going to be able to borrow this from my brother as of the 9th. Is this still starting on the 12th? Thanks!
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I read this earlier this year and absolutely loved it. I've been plugging it to all my friends. It's very heavy on eighties pop culture but it's also a good underdog story.
Will be reading along on this one too
I'm #3 in line at my library so hopefully i'll be able to get it in time to join in.
I think I'll probably skip this one. It sounds much Tron-like to me... and I have a HUGE pile of books to go through this month... maybe I'll change my mind till then
I'm in for this one...waiting on the library to get it in...library prayers please
Hope you, Nikita, and Jex can all get copies in time, Cathie! This one looks very promising. Sonia, we'd definitely love for you to join in on this one, but I understand if you have too many other things to read. :-)
I am going to join in this one too. I Ihave been wanting to read it for awhile now. Its as good a time as any to be back and participating.
Awesome, Laura! I should have today's questions up in a few hours. I started it this morning and I'm loving it so far!
If you're overwhelmed by discussion questions, feel free to pick and choose which questions to answer or skip them altogether. If you've already read the book, please give us your thoughts at the end! We'd love to hear them. Also, don't forget about Participation Power Points , which can be accumulated by answering questions and volunteering to write discussion questions.
Discussion Questions for Chapters 0 - 5
1) What do you think of Ernest Cline's vision of the future? Is it realistic or far-fetched? Why, or why not? I found the "stacks" of mobile homes imaginative, personally.
2) First impressions of Halliday? What did you think of his Invitation? If you were a billionaire and had no friends or family, what would you do with your money when you died?
3) I love the term "gunter," hehe. Would you participate in the hunt? Or would you be inclined to think it was all a big hoax?
4) I'm also loving all of these video game references. I grew up playing old PC games and Atari with my Dad. Do you have any favorite video games (childhood or otherwise)?
5) Seems like Wade's had a difficult life so far. Thoughts? He appears to be very resourceful - I thought his hideout was pretty neat.
6) What do you think of OASIS (loaded question, I know)? It's much bigger than I imagined (with jobs, real estate). What is your favorite part? Mine is definitely being able to access fictional worlds (such as Middle Earth or the Firefly Universe). Do you think it is well-imagined?
7) Can you see the appeal of escaping a world in crisis? What are the consequences of doing so?
8) I can imagine everyone's frustration over IOI's planned takeover. I wouldn't want ads or a subscription fee, either. What do you think of the "Sixers," as the gunters call them? Will they be threats later on as the search continues for the egg?
9) Do you think we will ever meet Art3mis the blogger? What are your impressions of her (if you have any)? What do you think of Aech?
10) What did you think of this first section overall? Are you hooked?
Got this one for download from the library this morning. However, I'm having download trouble (for any download) with my NEW computer! Eep. I talked with the computer support people, and I have to bring it in. Hopefully, this will get cleared up today. Trouble is, I have workmen coming I have to wait for before I can leave.
I've read the first section but still only have Internet on my cell phone . Home phone is out as well because it's all connected. Will try to answer questions when service is restored. Loving the book so far.
Discussion Questions for Chapters 0 - 51) What do you think of Ernest Cline's vision of the future? Is it realistic or far-fetched? Why, or why not? I found the "stacks" of mobile homes imaginative, personally. Yeah, I liked that too. I think it's pretty realistic overall. People's fascination with RPGs and the internet are bound to get more intense as technology improves.
2) First impressions of Halliday? What did you think of his Invitation? If you were a billionaire and had no friends or family, what would you do with your money when you died? LOVED Halliday as a character. He's messed up, but in such an interesting way. He's so self-obsessed!
3) I love the term "gunter," hehe. Would you participate in the hunt? Or would you be inclined to think it was all a big hoax? I think I would participate, if only because everyone else is and there doesn't seem to be much else to do. Plus it seems like if you're not up on this stuff you don't have much else to talk with other people about. I think the whole idea's depressing though.
4) I'm also loving all of these video game references. I grew up playing old PC games and Atari with my Dad. Do you have any favorite video games (childhood or otherwise)? My brother and I used to play Super Mario 3 on Nintendo. Nowadays the hubby and I like to play Super Mario Kart and Mario Party on Wii.
5) Seems like Wade's had a difficult life so far. Thoughts? He appears to be very resourceful - I thought his hideout was pretty neat. Yeah he's very resourceful! I liked how he charges his computer. I hope something goes right for him soon, though; all the bad turns are a little much.
6) What do you think of OASIS (loaded question, I know)? It's much bigger than I imagined (with jobs, real estate). What is your favorite part? Mine is definitely being able to access fictional worlds (such as Middle Earth or the Firefly Universe). Do you think it is well-imagined? I think it's cool that you have access to all the media (movies, books, TV)...ever. I love the virtual school too, where they take field trips constantly.
7) Can you see the appeal of escaping a world in crisis? What are the consequences of doing so? I don't totally get the circumstances of their world yet, I don't think. Like, I wonder how many aspects of "normal" life are left. It's hard for me to fathom what most people are doing for work. There are a lot of consequences. I think it's telling that the way Wade lives and that he's never met his best friend in person.
8) I can imagine everyone's frustration over IOI's planned takeover. I wouldn't want ads or a subscription fee, either. What do you think of the "Sixers," as the gunters call them? Will they be threats later on as the search continues for the egg? Yeah, definite threats. I thought it was weird that they were compared to the military - isn't there still an actual military? Also I wondered (maybe I just missed it) what happens when your avatar gets killed. Does that end a Sixer's career?
9) Do you think we will ever meet Art3mis the blogger? What are your impressions of her (if you have any)? What do you think of Aech? I think it's cute that Wade likes her and her writing, even though he knows it's all probably fake. I hope we meet her. That's another definite constriction of his society; though - how do you really know anyone when you're all at odds?
10) What did you think of this first section overall? Are you hooked? I definitely liked it, especially the first couple chapters. I like that it's written in a pretty straightforward way so all the imagination in the story can come through. I'm curious to see how everything will develop!
Discussion Questions for Chapters 0 - 51) What do you think of Ernest Cline's vision of the future? Is it realistic or far-fetched? Why, or why not? I found the "stacks" of mobile homes imaginative, personally.
I think it is a bit far fetched as far as the technology side of things but as far as the Energy crisis, I think it could be very possible. In the recession we have currently, I could also see where the poverty problems they have could be possible.
2) First impressions of Halliday? What did you think of his Invitation? If you were a billionaire and had no friends or family, what would you do with your money when you died?
He seems like a really cool eccentric guy that would be fun to know, but could also be annoying. I would give the money to a charity organization.
3) I love the term "gunter," hehe. Would you participate in the hunt? Or would you be inclined to think it was all a big hoax?
I love all of the little names for things that Cline has come up with. I think it would be fun to participate but I don't know that I would be good enough at it to actually get very far. I agree with Caitlin about the idea being depressing.
4) I'm also loving all of these video game references. I grew up playing old PC games and Atari with my Dad. Do you have any favorite video games (childhood or otherwise)?
I only remember Pac Man and the white space shooting game.
5) Seems like Wade's had a difficult life so far. Thoughts? He appears to be very resourceful - I thought his hideout was pretty neat.
I feel sorry for him because I have never experienced poverty or a family life of that terrible of a circumstance. I was surprised that he was so technologically smart in order to set up the van.
6) What do you think of OASIS (loaded question, I know)? It's much bigger than I imagined (with jobs, real estate). What is your favorite part? Mine is definitely being able to access fictional worlds (such as Middle Earth or the Firefly Universe). Do you think it is well-imagined?
I am a bit confused as to how the currency is worth more than actual currency. The fact that all of the different worlds have been combined from all of the different games is awesoome. I also agree with Caitlin that the fact that you can watch movies, read books and every other type of media that they had available for free.
7) Can you see the appeal of escaping a world in crisis? What are the consequences of doing so?
I think that it would help aleviate stress, but it could also cause the problem of no one ever worrying about a solution to all of the problems. I also think it is sad that there is not much left of "normal" society.
8) I can imagine everyone's frustration over IOI's planned takeover. I wouldn't want ads or a subscription fee, either. What do you think of the "Sixers," as the gunters call them? Will they be threats later on as the search continues for the egg?
I don't know that the "Sixers" will be a threat as far as figuring out the code as much as being a threat to him in different ways, such as physically looking for him or trying to kill his aavatar.
9) Do you think we will ever meet Art3mis the blogger? What are your impressions of her (if you have any)? What do you think of Aech?
I think we will eventually. I don't feel like I have enough information to form an opinion of her yet. I think that there is eventually going to be a falling out between Aech and Wade.
10) What did you think of this first section overall? Are you hooked?
I think it is interesting, but I am not hooked yet.
@ Kaitlin (I originally responded to your answers last night, but when I clicked "post," everything I typed went away...so I gave up and went to bed.)1) I think virtual reality is inevitable, though I can't imagine something quite as big as OASIS just yet. But with games like World of Warcraft growing and video game consoles advancing (Wii, X-Box Kinect, etc.), some sort of online virtual reality game is bound to be created eventually.
2) He seems incredibly quirky and I love his 80s obsession.
3) I agree, depressing. I'm not sure if I would participate or not.
4) I love Super Mario Kart on Wii. :-)
5) I think he has a good attitude about everything, though. He doesn't wallow in self-pity or waste time moping about his circumstances. Instead, he builds a hideout and focuses his energy on hunting the egg.
6) I would have loved that in my schools, growing up. Being able to see historical events in person would be so cool!
7) Well, I think there is a lot of normal life, but it's just much different because of the energy crisis. WIth no fuel, many types of businesses would die out, while others would spring up. On the other hand, if the majority of the population is escaping this "normal life" to OASIS, things might just be at a stand-still out there. In order for rebuilding to take place, the people would need to work together, you know? I think this will come into play later in the novel.
8) I don't think it's been explained, but I would imagine if your avatar is killed, you have to create a new one and you start at the beginning, at level one. This would be a big deal, I imagine, if you've amassed lots of levels and items, such as Aech.
9) The dynamic between Aech and Wade interests me for this reason. They're friends because they're egg hunters, and yet they can't even fully talk about the egg.
10) The writing definitely pulls you in. I'm enjoying it so far, too.
@ Laura1) I agree with you. I think what Cline has imagined as far as the energy crisis is not far-fetched at all. A bit scary, isn't it?
2) Definitely eccentric.
3) I don't think I would be very good at it either, which is probably why I wouldn't participate. Plus, I might be distracted by exploring Middle Earth or Narnia or something.
5) It was definitely hard reading about his situation. I hope things get better for him. He does seem to have a knack for technology and I wonder if that'll be helpful later on.
6) I think OASIS currency has become actual currency, with the amount of people using it all over the world. And the value of the dollar probably isn't very high. I'm guessing people can exchange dollars, euros, etc. for OASIS credits, but that hasn't really been explained.
7) Yes, with everyone in OASIS, nobody is out there fixing what needs to be fixed.
8) I agree. I think he'll have a lot of people after him after he finds the key.
9) I'm a bit suspicious of Aech, but I can't really explain why. It's probably paranoia.
Answers to Discussion Questions for Chapters 0 - 51) What do you think of Ernest Cline's vision of the future? Is it realistic or far-fetched? Why, or why not? I found the "stacks" of mobile homes imaginative, personally.
I found it very interesting. I could see some of it happening.
2) First impressions of Halliday? What did you think of his Invitation? If you were a billionaire and had no friends or family, what would you do with your money when you died?
I think he was lonely and eccentric. If I had all that money and the world was in bad shape I'd probably use it to explore ways of improving things in the real world.
3) I love the term "gunter," hehe. Would you participate in the hunt? Or would you be inclined to think it was all a big hoax?
I would it sounds like fun.
4) I'm also loving all of these video game references. I grew up playing old PC games and Atari with my Dad. Do you have any favorite video games (childhood or otherwise)?
Centipede was my all time favorite.
5) Seems like Wade's had a difficult life so far. Thoughts? He appears to be very resourceful - I thought his hideout was pretty neat.
It does seem he's had a bad time. I like how he doesn't let things get him down and, like you, I think he is very resourceful and like his hideout. I think he needs it for his own sanity. It almost seems like he'd be better off on his own.
6) What do you think of OASIS (loaded question, I know)? It's much bigger than I imagined (with jobs, real estate). What is your favorite part? Mine is definitely being able to access fictional worlds (such as Middle Earth or the Firefly Universe). Do you think it is well-imagined?
I like what we've seen so far. It's a video gamer's dream world.
7) Can you see the appeal of escaping a world in crisis? What are the consequences of doing so?
Yes, but you would loose touch with reality and what's going on around you and that would be bad. You might not care who the next President is or take care of yourself.
8) I can imagine everyone's frustration over IOI's planned takeover. I wouldn't want ads or a subscription fee, either. What do you think of the "Sixers," as the gunters call them? Will they be threats later on as the search continues for the egg?
It defeats the wishes of Halliday which was for an individual to win the contest.
9) Do you think we will ever meet Art3mis the blogger? What are your impressions of her (if you have any)? What do you think of Aech?
I hope we meet both Art3mis and Aech. I'm curious if they'll match up to what we and Wade think they'd look like.
10) What did you think of this first section overall? Are you hooked?
I'm liking it so far and am a tough hooked. I'm enjoying it more than I imagined I would.
@ Lisarenee1) Me too, which is a bit depressing.
2) Yes, same here.
3) It does sound like fun. I think it would seem overwhelming to me, though.
5) I agree. I'm glad he doesn't let his circumstances define him.
6) Definitely nerd heaven.
7) Yes, exactly.
8) Very true.
10) So am I. It's much different than I imagined.
Discussion Questions for Chapters 6 - 1011) Do you find Wade's obsessive dedication to the egg hunting commendable or sad?
12) If gunters don't share anything related to the egg with each other, what do you think they talk about on message boards?
13) Okay, this one isn't a question - I just had to acknowledge that you can sign up for Quidditch as a school sport in OASIS. That is all.
14) What did you make of Halliday's hiding place on Ludus? What does it say about him that he (appears to have) wanted a student to find the Copper Key?
15) Did you expect things to play out the way they did in the Tomb of Horrors? The image of Wade playing Joust with Acererak was incredibly bizarre, which fits with Halliday's eccentric personality, I suppose.
16) Did you expect that someone else had found the Tomb first? Do you trust Art3mis? Now that she has a Copper Key of her own, do you think she and Wade be running into each other more often on their quest?
17) What will things be like for Wade now? What will his relationship be like with Aech? Will he still attend school?
18) What do you think is beyond the gate?
11) Do you find Wade's obsessive dedication to the egg hunting commendable or sad? Kind of neither. I don't see him as having much else to do. I do think he's showing how smart and adaptable he is.12) If gunters don't share anything related to the egg with each other, what do you think they talk about on message boards? It seems like there are still celebrities and supermodels, so a lot of that stuff is probably still around. They do talk about Halliday, and there's so much material to talk about there with all the movies and games and whatnot
13) Okay, this one isn't a question - I just had to acknowledge that you can sign up for Quidditch as a school sport in OASIS. That is all.
14) What did you make of Halliday's hiding place on Ludus? What does it say about him that he (appears to have) wanted a student to find the Copper Key? I think it's true to the fact that he never really grew up and always saw himself as a kid. I think it's a way for him to live on, that he wishes he were one of the kids taking part in the adventure.
15) Did you expect things to play out the way they did in the Tomb of Horrors? The image of Wade playing Joust with Acererak was incredibly bizarre, which fits with Halliday's eccentric personality, I suppose. Not really. It was a little too easy, but I don't think I would've wanted to read about repeated jousting attempts, so it makes sense.
16) Did you expect that someone else had found the Tomb first? Do you trust Art3mis? Now that she has a Copper Key of her own, do you think she and Wade be running into each other more often on their quest? I did not expect that someone else would show up first. I LOVED that. I thought it was sweet she did that restoring thing for Wade even though he didn't need it. Yeah, she's going to be a serious player. Seems like she's more intense than Wade in the quest, but he's a better gamer and strategist.
17) What will things be like for Wade now? What will his relationship be like with Aech? Will he still attend school? I hadn't thought to be suspicious of Aech before, but I guess it makes sense. His relationship with Aech will be strained. But I wouldn't be surprised if Wade needed Aech's help at a certain point because Wade's so poor. I think there was some major foreshadowing that Wade's going to get kicked out of school. And his laptop is school-issue, so that could be a major setback...
18) What do you think is beyond the gate? I hope it involves Galaga and Galaxian :-)
Thanks Mary! Great questions.
Discussion Questions for Chapters 6 - 1011) Do you find Wade's obsessive dedication to the egg hunting commendable or sad?
I find it commendable and sad at the same time. Its sad because he is lonely and constantly stuck in his van, but at the same time he is hunting because he wants a better life for himself.
12) If gunters don't share anything related to the egg with each other, what do you think they talk about on message boards?
I think they might share their video game scores and trivia. If they are Wade's age they might also talk about school.
13) Okay, this one isn't a question - I just had to acknowledge that you can sign up for Quidditch as a school sport in OASIS. That is all.
I know pretty awesome!
14) What did you make of Halliday's hiding place on Ludus? What does it say about him that he (appears to have) wanted a student to find the Copper Key?
I wonder if Halliday was truly happy with the way the world was or if he is giving an intelligent child this opportunity so that they can make the world a better place. I am not sure what other reasons he may have.
15) Did you expect things to play out the way they did in the Tomb of Horrors? The image of Wade playing Joust with Acererak was incredibly bizarre, which fits with Halliday's eccentric personality, I suppose.
I seem to vaguely remember the Joust game from when I was a child. I knew Wade was going to win, but I didn't expect Art3mis to show up. Or anything that happened afterwards with her. I did think it was an odd scene, but Halliday is an odd character.
16) Did you expect that someone else had found the Tomb first? Do you trust Art3mis? Now that she has a Copper Key of her own, do you think she and Wade be running into each other more often on their quest?
I don't know that I trust any other character. Its obvious sthat Art3mis lied to Wade about how long she had been trying to get the Copper Key. I am sure that he will be running into her often.
17) What will things be like for Wade now? What will his relationship be like with Aech? Will he still attend school?
I am sure that Aech and he will have some trouble. I doubt that he will spend much time with Aech. I have a feeling that Aech will be hounding him for clues.
18) What do you think is beyond the gate?
No Idea.
11) Do you find Wade's obsessive dedication to the egg hunting commendable or sad? Sadly, in his world there isn't much else he can do. I wish we had a little more information on what the average person's career path would be. Is college a possibility? Can everyone attend or does it cost a lot of money like it does now? Are scholarships available. Also, is everyone given food vouchers or just kids?
12) If gunters don't share anything related to the egg with each other, what do you think they talk about on message boards?
I would imagine games, high scores, movies, etc
13) Okay, this one isn't a question - I just had to acknowledge that you can sign up for Quidditch as a school sport in OASIS. That is all.
Grin. I like the author's vision.
14) What did you make of Halliday's hiding place on Ludus? What does it say about him that he (appears to have) wanted a student to find the Copper Key?
Maybe he was hoping someone like himself would win?
15) Did you expect things to play out the way they did in the Tomb of Horrors? The image of Wade playing Joust with Acererak was incredibly bizarre, which fits with Halliday's eccentric personality, I suppose.
I actually liked this. Not only do you need skill, but you need the ultimate concentration skills not to be distracted. I thought it was kind of cool. Plus, you have to have guts to approach something like that.
16) Did you expect that someone else had found the Tomb first? Do you trust Art3mis? Now that she has a Copper Key of her own, do you think she and Wade be running into each other more often on their quest?
I think so. Could be interesting. She could make things interesting by distracting him. I think it's pretty obvious he likes her.
17) What will things be like for Wade now? What will his relationship be like with Aech? Will he still attend school?
I think Aech and he will remain friends. I don't know about school. I wonder if he can work (so to speak) from home since it's all virtual?
18) What do you think is beyond the gate?
I'm not sure, but I'm looking forward to finding out.
@ Kaitlin11) True. He's able to retain all that knowledge, for one, and be able to recall it quickly when he needs it. Definitely a bright kid.
14) Ooh, love your answer here.
15) At first, when it was revealed Wade would be "jousting" with him instead of battling him, I thought it was too easy, too, but I think it fits more with Halliday's personality to have them battle it out over an arcade game rather than actually physically fighting.
16) I did like that she tried to heal him, and I think that says a lot about her character. She's going to be a fierce competitor, but I like her so far.
17) I hadn't thought of his laptop being school-issue. Hmm...
@ Laura11) Good point, and I agree with you about it being both.
13) So awesome. :-)
14) Yes, I agree. I think he wanted someone who would use the money to improve things.
15) I didn't expect Art3mis, either. Definitely an odd scene.
16) I'm finding it difficult to trust people, too. I like Art3mis, but I don't know if I trust her. I definitely want to see more of her, though.
@ Lisarenee11) I think I remember Wade saying he wouldn't be able to afford college. I don't remember him mentioning scholarships, but perhaps his grades aren't quite good enough, as he spends most of his time devoted to egg hunting.
13) I keep getting surprised by the author's creativity every few pages.
15) I liked it, too. The skills required for arcade games are completely different than those required for hand-to-hand combat. It's looking as if Wade's obsessive preparation is going to be a huge advantage.
16) I wonder if she'll use his (obvious) crush on her to her advantage?
Discussion Questions for Chapters 11 - 1419) What did you think of the WarGames simulation as Wade's quest? Have you ever watched a movie so many times you feel like you can quote it line for line? If so, what movie(s)?
20) I'm not surprised GSS created Flicksyncs after finding out about the simulation. If you could jump into a movie or TV series and play through it, which would it be?
21) First impressions of Ogden Morrow? What did you think of his interview with the press? Will he be a factor later on in the book?
22) Now Aech has the first key and gate. Will Wade regret helping Aech with the key? Will their friendship continue to hold up despite their competition?
23) Am I the only one who thinks these endorsement deals are a bad idea? Isn't it a bad thing for his avatar's face to be plastered everywhere? On the other hand, it looks like the money he'll earn might save him in the real world.
24) What did you think of Sorrento? Did you find any of his offers tempting? Do you think Aech or Art3mis will sell out?
25) Were you as surprised as I was that IOI had unearthed Wade's identity and location? Did you think Sorrento was bluffing with the explosives?
26) What will Wade do now? It looks like he'll be hunted in both realities. How will he handle the deaths of those in the stacks?
So far I'm loving this book. I like the way it is written and I am totally drawn into the existence and experience of OASIS. I'm a gamer and part of the HOME experience (PS3) and have been around since the inception of bulletin boards (I use to run one in the late 80s), so I can laugh at all the references. Both of my sons grew up playing the video games mentioned and I like the references made to movies, tv shows, and the culture of the 80s. Even the footnotes are appealing to me!, lol. Great choice in BOM and one I never heard of before or probably would have picked up to read. Now, back to reading :-)
Cathie wrote: "So far I'm loving this book. I like the way it is written and I am totally drawn into the existence and experience of OASIS. I'm a gamer and part of the HOME experience (PS3) and have been around..."Glad you're enjoying it, Cathie! I'm loving the references too. I think it was a great choice for a BOM, too and I wouldn't have picked this up otherwise, either.
@ MaryI want to see more of Art3mis too.
Also, it did say that Wade's grades weren't good enough for scholarships. I assume because of his hunting, but it didn't really say.
@ Lisarenee
11. I wish we did know more about how the whole voucher system, currency, and everything works. I am thinking that we probably won't find out much more though.
15. I liked it too, but I did think it was a bit weird.
I am really enjoying this book as well and it isn't something I would normally read.
Discussion Questions for Chapters 11 - 1419) What did you think of the WarGames simulation as Wade's quest? Have you ever watched a movie so many times you feel like you can quote it line for line? If so, what movie(s)?
I thought it was really easy for a quest. I feel like I could quote "Ferris Bueller" line for line. I have always loved that movie.
20) I'm not surprised GSS created Flicksyncs after finding out about the simulation. If you could jump into a movie or TV series and play through it, which would it be?
I am not surprised either. If it will make money of course they are going to jump all over it. I think it would be awesome to play through Star Wars as Yoda or Lucille Ball in "I Love Lucy".
21) First impressions of Ogden Morrow? What did you think of his interview with the press? Will he be a factor later on in the book?
I liked Morrow a lot. I was impressed with his character and the fact that he seemed disturbed with the state of the world. I also like how he is trying to keep the contest as Halladay would have wanted it. I hope that we see more of him later on in the book.
22) Now Aech has the first key and gate. Will Wade regret helping Aech with the key? Will their friendship continue to hold up despite their competition?
I am already surprised by how well their relationship seems to be holding up. I am not sure if Wade will regret helping Aech later on, but I am hoping that they find somem way to continue their friendship.
23) Am I the only one who thinks these endorsement deals are a bad idea? Isn't it a bad thing for his avatar's face to be plastered everywhere? On the other hand, it looks like the money he'll earn might save him in the real world.
I thought the same thing and I was very surprised when he took the deals. I am wondering how they are going to play out in the end.
24) What did you think of Sorrento? Did you find any of his offers tempting? Do you think Aech or Art3mis will sell out?
I do not like Sorrento or IOI at all. I could see where Wade might have been tempted to take some of the offers, but I am glad that he didn't in the end. I am wondering if Aech or Art3mis will have a choice if IOI somehow finds them and is able to blackmail them, their family life may be a little different than Wade's. It may cause them to give in.
25) Were you as surprised as I was that IOI had unearthed Wade's identity and location? Did you think Sorrento was bluffing with the explosives?
I was shocked and then really angry. I didn't think he was bluffing at all.
26) What will Wade do now? It looks like he'll be hunted in both realities. How will he handle the deaths of those in the stacks?
I am not sure, it sounds to me like this book can go either way now. I am really enjoying it!
19) It was interesting, but I think it would've been so hard! He could only get two wrong in a row, and he had to do the movements too! I could probably recite Wedding Crashers. 20) I would love to be one of the characters in Parks & Rec. Not very adventurous, but really silly.
21) I didn't get too much of a feel for Sorrento yet. It's nice that he's trying to keep the spirit of the game true.
22) Yeah, I think Aech is being manipulative. I think it's gonna bite Wade later.
23) I was also surprised. Wade just did it so flippantly; he can't have read the terms carefully. I think that'll be a factor later.
24) Sorrento was way over the top, but it was an interesting conversation. And I loved the part where Wade got him fired.
25) Yes! I was surprised. I thought he was bluffing. It was a great twist though.
26) I don't think the deaths in the stacks will affect Wade much, but the fact that IOI is on his tail is a real problem. I'm also enjoying this and look forward to seeing what's next!
1) What do you think of Ernest Cline's vision of the future? Is it realistic or far-fetched? Why, or why not? I found the "stacks" of mobile homes imaginative, personally.I think it's scary! I hope nothing like that happens, but honestly I could see it happening. At least it's more likely than other dystopian novels I have read.
2) First impressions of Halliday? What did you think of his Invitation? If you were a billionaire and had no friends or family, what would you do with your money when you died?
I would probably donate the money to charity if I had no one to give it to, but Halliday seems eccentric so I not surprised he would do have a contest. I am looking forward to seeing how the contest plays out.
3) I love the term "gunter," hehe. Would you participate in the hunt? Or would you be inclined to think it was all a big hoax?
I might participate, but I don't know that I would let it take over my life like the gunners.
4) I'm also loving all of these video game references. I grew up playing old PC games and Atari with my Dad. Do you have any favorite video games (childhood or otherwise)?
I didn't play a lot of video games like Atari as a kid, but I was a computer science major and big into computers when I was a kid. I loved computer games like King's Quest and Space Quest.
5) Seems like Wade's had a difficult life so far. Thoughts? He appears to be very resourceful - I thought his hideout was pretty neat.
He does seem like he has had it pretty enough so far. I am definitely impressed with how well he has been able to deal with his situation.
6) What do you think of OASIS (loaded question, I know)? It's much bigger than I imagined (with jobs, real estate). What is your favorite part? Mine is definitely being able to access fictional worlds (such as Middle Earth or the Firefly Universe). Do you think it is well-imagined?
I think it's dangerous. I think you have to be really careful of anything that can suck you in so completely.
7) Can you see the appeal of escaping a world in crisis? What are the consequences of doing so?
I can see the appeal, but I think it's dangerous. I think you risk losing your real life relationships if you escape too much.
8) I can imagine everyone's frustration over IOI's planned takeover. I wouldn't want ads or a subscription fee, either. What do you think of the "Sixers," as the gunters call them? Will they be threats later on as the search continues for the egg?
I definitely feel like they will be threats. I think having subscription fees would be a bad idea and further separate the rich from the poor.
9) Do you think we will ever meet Art3mis the blogger? What are your impressions of her (if you have any)? What do you think of Aech?
I think we will meet and hear more about Art3mis. I like Aech's character so far.
10) What did you think of this first section overall? Are you hooked?
I like it so far and I am looking forward to reading more.
@ Laura19) I actually find the idea pretty difficult. Perhaps not for Wade, but even he had a little trouble with it. The movie I can quote the best is probably The Princess Bride. I do think the challenges Wade will face for the next few keys/gates will become more difficult, though.
20) Ooh, Star Wars! That would be pretty awesome. I think it would be really fun to jump into Doctor Who or Buffy the Vampire Slayer. I wish I could jump into any book I wanted instead...
21) I agree with everything here.
22) Me too! I thought there would be problems between them when Wade got the first key. I'm hoping they can remain friends, too.
23) Me too. I got really worried when he didn't look over the contracts before signing.
24) True. The other thing is, we might not know if they do give in to Sorrento until the very end. One of Sorrento's offers was that Wade's participation with IOI remain secret. I'm doubtful that either would sell out unless forced, though.
25) I was shocked, too. I didn't see it coming at all.
26) Me too! It was hard to put down.
@ Kaitlin19) I think it would have been really hard, even for my favorite movie. I can mostly quote The Princess Bride, but I don't think I can do all the movements, actions, etc.
20) Love Parks & Rec! It's one of my favorite shows. Have you ever seen Community? That would be a fun one to drop into, too. I'd probably choose a nerdy TV show like Doctor Who or Buffy.
21) Me too.
22) Hmm, interesting. I'm actually not that suspicious of him anymore, heh! But I can see where you're coming from now.
23) I agree. I wish he'd been able to look over the contracts and think about things carefully. However, he's going to need money to survive in the real world if he'll be running from the Sixers.
24) Yes! That was the best.
25) I didn't know what to think about the explosives. I think I was just shocked that IOI had gone there, had done that.
26) Me too!
@ Kim L1) I agree with you - I think it's more realistic than most dystopian novels I've read recently. I could definitely see it happening.
2) Yes, his contest isn't that surprising given his personality.
3) It's become pretty obsessive for them, hasn't it? I think I would either have to participate fully or not participate at all, so I'd probably just stay out of it.
4) I had so many favorite PC games growing up. From Commander Keen to (later) Civilization II and Heroes of Might & Magic II & III. I grew up overseas and didn't play video games until I moved back to the United States when I was in my early teens. By then, I was pretty spoiled on PC games and found Donkey Kong a bit silly.
5) Me too. He doesn't dwell on his past, but is instead always looking forward.
6) Absolutely dangerous, I agree. I think it says a lot that the entire population is hiding out in OASIS instead of fixing the energy crisis. Their world is crumbling around them and they don't care.
7) I agree completely.
8) Hadn't thought of it that way, but you're right. Those that are poor and attending school through OASIS - like Wade - might not be able to anymore, either.
10) Glad you joined us and glad you like it so far!
Would anyone be willing to do the DQs on Saturday? I'm going to be out the entire day and I don't think I'll have time. If no one can, I'll just try to post them tomorrow night instead.
Mary wrote: "Would anyone be willing to do the DQs on Saturday? I'm going to be out the entire day and I don't think I'll have time. If no one can, I'll just try to post them tomorrow night instead."I can do the questions on Saturday if you need me to. I found the audiobook at my elibrary and I am downloading it now. I am going to listen today while I clean and get all caught up so I should be ready to post questions on Saturday.
Kim L wrote: "Mary wrote: "Would anyone be willing to do the DQs on Saturday? I'm going to be out the entire day and I don't think I'll have time. If no one can, I'll just try to post them tomorrow night instead..."Wonderful, thank you! :) That would be a big help.
Discussion Questions for Chapters 15 - 1927) Is it possible that Sorrento's already gotten to someone in the "High Five," as Art3mis puts it? Or are the members too smart for that?
28) First impressions of Daito and Shoto? Were they what you expected?
29) What about the disturbance in the corner of the chat room? Did IOI break into it somehow? Or is something else going on?
30) It looks like things are headed to an all-out war between the Sixers and the gunters. Who do you think will reach the Jade Key first?
31) Were you surprised at how easy it was for Wade to create a new identity and set up a new home? Do you like his new place and new gear?
32) What do you think of Wade's decision to stay inside until he finds the egg? What does it say about him that he avoids interaction with any human being whatsoever?
33) What did you think of the chat between Art3mis and Wade? Why do you think Art3mis is so reluctant to reveal anything personal about herself?
34) Do you think Wade was too obvious about his feelings for her? Do you think Art3mis is manipulating him in any way? Or does she perhaps not trust him to care about the real her?
35) What did you think of Ogden's dance party? Surprised the Sixers crashed it? And what about Og's lightning superpower? That was pretty neat.
36) Book quote:"I was just another sad, lost, lonely soul, wasting his life on a glorified videogame." What do you think brought about this realization? Will this change anything to have admitted this to himself?
37) Now that we are roughly halfway through the book, what is your overall opinion of it? Any thoughts not covered in the DQs?
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
11/22/63 (other topics)The Orchardist (other topics)
Armada (other topics)
Ender’s Game (other topics)
Armada (other topics)
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Authors mentioned in this topic
Ernest Cline (other topics)Ernest Cline (other topics)
This topic is open for discussion of Ready Player One by Ernest Cline. Be prepared for SPOILERS
Book synopsis:
It's the year 2044, and the real world is an ugly place.
Like most of humanity, Wade Watts escapes his grim surroundings by spending his waking hours jacked into the OASIS, a sprawling virtual utopia that lets you be anything you want to be, a place where you can live and play and fall in love on any of ten thousand planets.
And like most of humanity, Wade dreams of being the one to discover the ultimate lottery ticket that lies concealed within this virtual world. For somewhere inside this giant networked playground, OASIS creator James Halliday has hidden a series of fiendish puzzles that will yield massive fortune--and remarkable power--to whoever can unlock them.
For years, millions have struggled fruitlessly to attain this prize, knowing only that Halliday's riddles are based in the pop culture he loved--that of the late twentieth century. And for years, millions have found in this quest another means of escape, retreating into happy, obsessive study of Halliday's icons. Like many of his contemporaries, Wade is as comfortable debating the finer points of John Hughes's oeuvre, playing Pac-Man, or reciting Devo lyrics as he is scrounging power to run his OASIS rig.
And then Wade stumbles upon the first puzzle.
Suddenly the whole world is watching, and thousands of competitors join the hunt--among them certain powerful players who are willing to commit very real murder to beat Wade to this prize. Now the only way for Wade to survive and preserve everything he knows is to win. But to do so, he may have to leave behind his oh-so-perfect virtual existence and face up to life--and love--in the real world he's always been so desperate to escape.
A world at stake.
A quest for the ultimate prize.
Are you ready?