A closer look at sci-fi
Read the podcast script about why science fiction is popular. Write a T if a sentence is true, an F if it is false or an NM if it is not mentioned.
Host: Hello everybody and welcome to Book Beat. Have you read *The Wandering Earth* by Liu Cixin? What about *The Martian* by Andy Weir? In today's episode, we're discussing the popularity of science fiction stories like these. Joining me is John Liu, the author of several sci-fi books. Welcome, John.
John: Thank you. Glad to be here.
Host: Tell me, John, why is science fiction so popular?
John: For several reasons. First, sci-fi encourages readers to think about the future, especially how technology may change human society, for better or worse. That's an interesting thing to explore!
Host: Yes, technology has already changed our world so much in the past 20 years. I often think about classic sci-fi stories like *I, Robot* first published in 1950. Back then, AI was a fictional idea. Now it's part of everyday life!
John: Exactly! Sci-fi also helps us figure out how to deal with big global problems. Many sci-fi stories today explore AI, space travel and even climate change. This helps us imagine future challenges and possible ways to address them.
Host: That's true. What else do you like about sci-fi?
John: One more thing: sci-fi is also a lot of fun! Most sci-fi stories are full of excitement and possibility. In a sci-fi world, anything can happen! Many readers see sci-fi as a fun break from their daily lives and a chance to imagine something new. I think that's a big part of why it's so popular.
Host: That's a good point. Thanks, John.
1 The purpose of the episode is to discuss John Liu's sci-fi novels.
2 John thinks readers enjoy sci-fi because it lets them imagine the future.
3 The host's favourite sci-fi writer is Andy Weir.
4 Today's sci-fi stories often deal with global problems like climate change.
5 The host doesn't agree with John about the value of science fiction.