The Peripheral by William Gibson intertwines two timelines: one in the near future and one in the distant future where protagonist Flynne Fisher fills in for her brother on a security job for what she believes is a game, only to witness a real murder. This event propels her, Burton, and their friends into communication with the future, utilizing time-travel devices called peripherals to solve the crime. The novel contains graphic depictions of violence, murder, and climate catastrophe.

William Gibson's The Peripheral has garnered acclaim for its intricate, imaginative world-building and thought-provoking exploration of technology's future impact. However, some readers find the complex narrative and shifting timelines challenging to follow. Overall, it is praised for its originality and relevance but may demand attentive reading for full appreciation.

A reader who would enjoy The Peripheral by William Gibson is likely a fan of speculative fiction and cyberpunk genres. They might appreciate intricate, multi-layered narratives akin to William Gibson's earlier works like Neuromancer or Neal Stephenson's Snow Crash. Themes of technology, societal shifts, and dystopian futures will captivate these readers.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Gritty / Dark / Challenging

- The Peripheral is part of a shared universe known as the "Jackpot Trilogy," although it can be enjoyed independently of its sequels.
- Author William Gibson is widely recognized for pioneering the science fiction subgenre known as cyberpunk, with The Peripheral reflecting his signature blend of speculative technology and dystopian futures.
- A television adaptation of The Peripheral was released on Amazon Prime Video in 2022, expanding Gibson's universe into a new medium.

**Flynne Fisher**  
An independent-minded gamer with strong moral integrity, who finds herself drawn into complex situations often controlled by others; her main concern initially is caring for her mother.

**Wilf Netherton**  
A conflicted publicist known for embellishing the truth, who harbors a longing for a different world and plays a crucial role in revealing important information to Flynne.

**Ainsley Lowbeer**  
A wise detective with the ability to manipulate situations for good, particularly in investigating mysterious events, using her authority to gather information discreetly.

**Burton Fisher**  
A former Marine and the secretive, temper-prone brother of Flynne, who often keeps her in the dark but is actively involved in securing their safety and delivering justice.

William Gibson

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Peripheral and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Peripheral Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Peripheral Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-15

The Peripheral Chapters 1-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-30

The Peripheral Chapters 16-30 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 31-45

The Peripheral Chapters 31-45 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 46-60

The Peripheral Chapters 46-60 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 61-75

The Peripheral Chapters 61-75 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 76-90

The Peripheral Chapters 76-90 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 91-105

The Peripheral Chapters 91-105 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 106-124

The Peripheral Chapters 106-124 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Peripheral Character Analysis

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Themes

The Peripheral Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Peripheral Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Peripheral Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Peripheral Essay Topics

The Peripheral

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Peripheral?

Reading Age

Book Details