The MANIAC Paperback – 4 July 2024

After a long long time, I came across a book that had me hooked like this. Part facts, part fiction, it explores the evolution of science through life of Von Neumann - a mathematical genius.But for me, the book shines the best as it talks about the evolution of AI and clash of AI with best players of this game called Go.Using the historical facts and a brilliant narrative to back them up, the author Benjamin Labatut plays with readers' minds making it difficult to separate fact from fiction. But in the end, what results is a highly entertaining read.Must read for anyone interested in science and it's evolution.

This book by Benjamin Labatut is interesting. As in his last book, it is a work of fiction based on facts. What makes the book compelling, are the stories and the links - no matter how tenuous between genius and depression. This link comes through strongly in the first section about mathematicians.The second section concerns the development of computers and the atom bomb.And in the last section, AI.The link between mania and genius is weakest in the last section. The book is sometimes difficult to follow, especially in the second section, where he keeps jumping around.

This is one of the most remarkable books I have read. It simultaneously falls into many categories. It reads like a biography creates a feel of a thriller at the end but is actually a work of fiction. As it is based on facts there is plenty to learn. You learn about some commonalities that afflict geniuses, about how different people can have different views of the same person, how genius has levels, how mathematics can influence many fields and the disruptive power of AI. Highly recommended.

The book is a gripping account of the development of artificial intelligence from the early part of the twentieth century to modern times. It is a fascinating account of John von Neumann, a mathematical genius bordering on madness. A fiction based on fact. It is a racy novel that I couldn't put down.

Much like Benjamin's Labatut's previous work- 'When we cease to understand the world', 'The Maniac' too fiddles with notions of science, technological advancements, complexity, the geniuses behind them and most importantly, the fine line between that and madness. It is a bewitching read which offers anecdotes strung together with a thread balanced on facts and fiction and offers a gaze into the greatest minds which once lived. Breathtaking and dazzling. I will be in awe for many months to come.

This is as good as author's earlier book. Loved it.

Absorbing,Intelligent and Thought Provoking

I received the book in a poor situation. Last 50 pages are damaged due to some liquid spilling on the it and percolation. The back cover is also damaged due to this.