Kiteworld

Keith Roberts preferred style seems to be linked short stories (see also his book Pavane). The chapters in Kiteworld are effectively self contained, though characters reappear, and the book does build to its conclusion. Structure isn't the only original thing about Roberts' writing; the world he creates is truly unique, one where badlands have been created and in which kites have taken on a mythic power as the defence against the forces from these badlands; the Kite fliers are somewhere between jet pilots and priests in status. In this setting he deals with strong human relationships and emotions. Be warned: this is not your typical fantasy or science fiction light read; some point of comparison might be Stephen Donaldson. Personally I find it all the more worth reading because of its strong themes, but it's not to everyone's taste. I have to say, the ending is very disappointing (or I might well have given it five stars). But two of the middle stories are some of the most emotionally gripping stories I've ever read. Buy it if you want to read something truly unique in science fiction.