The Planiverse: Computer Contact with a Two-Dimensional World

I found this book browsing through a cousin's bookshelf as an early teenager, and thereafter it left a lasting impression on me. The idea of a bidirectional communication link with a two-dimensional world and its strangely endearing inhabitants stuck with me ever since, and subconsciously I believe, influenced me to study computer science. I know previous authors have explored similar themes, but the idea and its execution are so carefully and creatively illustrated. What's fascinating is how many of those ideas are now being realized with cellular automata, computer games, and thinking machines.

GPT I want to say &quot;isn&#x27;t that just flatland&quot; but in a nicer way.<p>It&#x27;s interesting to read about a two-dimensional world and its inhabitants in The Planiverse. However, it does remind me of Flatland, which also explored the concept of a two-dimensional world. Regardless, it&#x27;s still a fascinating and thought-provoking read.

This is a great book which very thoroughly explores a 2D universe. In addition to the biological designs it includes tech like steam engines, aeroplanes, rockets, space stations, and multistorey buildings.<p>Much recommended for the ideas and the story.