I believe I've read every book that Neal Stephenson has written, but I have to say this one is my least favorite. It's densely written, full of invented words, and quite technical - which don't make it a bad book, but do make it a slow and weighty read. The world's scenario is interesting, though rather far-fetched, but Stephenson insists on working in some very odd theories about science and reality that make for a rather odd (and for me unsatisfying) ending.