In a book and film market dominated by clones of Star Wars empires and XFiles pseudo-investigations, The Chain of Chance stands out as an example of a conceptually mature mystery. One avenue for discussion are the elements that create intrigue, suspense, and final resolution in this novel compared to American and British mysteries, especially as they have been popularized for special effects rather than mind-twisters that challenge the logical brain.

1. How would you classify The Chain of Chance: as a science fiction novel? A detective mystery? An action thriller? A socio-philosophical parable? What are the criteria for your classification?

2. Did you have any intimation of the solution to the mystery before it was revealed? Did you find Lem's solution startling?

3. The novel begins enigmatically, with John retracing the steps of a dead man.

Why does Lem place the reader in the middle of action, and only...