A diverse collection of seven cyberpunk-themed stories by Polish women authors, this anthology explores dystopian futures shaped by pandemics, alien invasions, technological augmentation, and societal collapse, each featuring complex female protagonists navigating harsh, transformed worlds. The stories blend elements of science fiction and social commentary, focusing on survival, identity, and the impact of technology on humanity, though the level of cyberpunk atmosphere and narrative depth varies across the collection.

Reader Review Summary

Based on the marketing description and reader reviews, "Cyberpunk Girls. Opowiadania" is an engaging and creative anthology of cyberpunk short stories written by Polish female authors. Here is a thorough review highlighting the book's strengths:

This anthology showcases the impressive imaginative powers of its writers in envisioning richly detailed dystopian futures and gritty cyberpunk worlds. The stories transport readers to vividly rendered landscapes of technological advances gone awry, societal breakdowns, pandemics spiraling out of control, and the harsh realities of existence on the fringes of crumbling civilizations.

One of the collection's biggest strengths is the diversity of its tales and settings. While united by an overarching cyberpunk aesthetic, each story presents a unique take colored by its author's creative vision. From mind-bending virtual reality mysteries to high-octane outlaw biker gang thrillers, humdrum existence twisted by a vicious virus, or alien artifacts upending life as we know it - there is an intriguing array of premises and narratives to captivate readers.

The female protagonists are another standout element, defying gender stereotypes with their resilience, determination, and ability to survive against all odds in dehumanizing environments. Whether as resourceful couriers, daring gang racers, or detectives unraveling insidious conspiracies, these flawed but admirable heroines make for compelling character-driven stories.

Martyna Raduchowska's contributions like "Heartbyte" and "Mindblow" are frequently cited as highlights, deftly blending haunting dystopian imagery with emotional depth. The immersive world-building of Jagna Rolska's "Spandau" and the intriguing collaboration "Dotknąć ciemności" by Krystyna Chodorowska and Gabriela Panika also earn widespread praise from readers.

While not every story may appeal equally to all tastes, the consistently high quality of prose, imaginative plot premises, and superb renderings of cyberpunk aesthetics make this a hugely satisfying and thoughtful read for fans of the genre as well as sci-fi enthusiasts in general. With its skillful weaving of thrills and social commentary, "Cyberpunk Girls" serves as an excellent gateway into Polish cyberpunk fiction.