“The purpose of this book,” Daniel Wilson writes in the introduction, “is to prepare you for the future robot uprising.” And he’s only half joking. Wilson, who has a PhD in robotics from Carnegie Mellon University, tapped top scientists to complete his exhaustive list of realistic tips for surviving a “kill all humans” android insurrection. The result is equal parts sci-fi send-up and technical primer, blended with enough skill to land the 28-year-old two more book deals and a movie option from Paramount. Bookstores make the mistake of filing this under humor, but as Wilson says, “lots of government agencies hire researchers to build real killer robots.” So be prepared, just in case.
– Robert Capps
6 Ways to Beat a Bot
1. Hood
To thwart rapidly improving facial-recognition systems, don a hood or a hat – the fabric makes the shape of your head more difficult to identify.
2. Goggles
The good thing about getting zapped with a laser: The wound will cauterize instantly. The bad thing: If it hits your eyes, you’re blind. Welder’s goggles will protect your most sensitive sensor.
3. Crowbar
Using a kung fu chop on a titanium-and-steel killing machine will only get you a broken hand (and maybe a hearty laugh if your adversary has an emotion chip). Arm yourself with a heavy, blunt weapon, like an old-fashioned crowbar.
4. Compass
Knowing how to spot an android is half the battle. Hold a compass next to the suspect. If the bot’s magnetic field makes the needle go haywire, bolt.
5. Dirt
Bike Robots have a hard time navigating rough terrain. A bicycle can get you to safety. Besides, at this point, you ought to distrust anything with an engine.
6. Cape
Newer bots can recognize their prey by its walk. A nice long cape or trench coat can disguise your gait.
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