Do I need to read the books in this series in a specific order?

The first four novellas in the series form a single, continuous story arc and are best read in their original publication order. While later entries in the series can sometimes be approached with more flexibility, starting with this book is essential to understanding the protagonist's development.

Has this book been adapted into a film or television series?

A television adaptation of the series exists and is available on Apple TV. The first season of the show covers the events depicted in this book.

What major awards has this book received?

This book won the Hugo Award for Best Novella in 2018 and the Nebula Award for Best Novella in 2017. It also received a 2018 Alex Award from the American Library Association, which recognizes adult books with special appeal to teen readers.

All Systems Red

Reader reviews of All Systems Red

Wistful Bibliophile · 2026-09-10T19:12:15.000000Z

During the first chapters of this novella, I was all on board and completely sure that I was in for a treat. But as I finished the last page, I realized it had let me down. The fast pacing had kept me distracted from the fact I hadn't been emotionally connecting to any of the characters, not even the MC. Everything else was really great, I have no other complaints, but I hope the next instalments make me care a bit more about this sassy Murderbot.

Novella Science Fiction Space Opera

Pages: 144
Published: 2017
Language: English

Synopsis

Meet Murderbot, a SecUnit who has hacked its own core programming and just wants to be left alone to watch its favorite media. But when a mission goes wrong, it finds itself reluctantly protecting a group of humans. Can Murderbot keep its independence while dealing with these messy organic beings and the dangers of space?