A Borrowed Man Books books in order

Gene Wolfe's A Borrowed Man series is a unique blend of science fiction and hardboiled noir, set in a future where 'reclones' of famous writers are kept in libraries for public consultation.

A Borrowed Man Books in Order

# Title Published Author Buy on Amazon
1 A Borrowed Man 2015 Gene Wolfe Buy
2 Interlibrary Loan 2020 Gene Wolfe Buy

The A Borrowed Man series by Gene Wolfe is a brilliant and haunting exploration of memory, identity, and the value of a human life. In a world where the population has been drastically reduced and technology has reached a plateau, libraries have become repositories for the digital ghosts of the past.

The story follows Ern A. Smithe, a reclone who finds himself “checked out” by a woman seeking help with a mystery that only his original’s memories can solve. The books are written in the style of a classic noir, but with the philosophical depth and intricate world-building that are the hallmarks of Wolfe’s work.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the premise of A Borrowed Man?

The series is set in a future where the memories of dead writers are used to create ‘reclones’ who live in libraries and can be borrowed like books.

Who is the protagonist of the series?

The main character is Ern A. Smithe, a reclone of a mid-list mystery writer.

How many books are in the series?

There are 2 books in the A Borrowed Man Books series, published between 2015 and 2020.

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