I think I've tried Snow Crash 2 or 3 times, but have never made it very far in. It's my friend's favorite book, so I may try again sometime, but I think it's just not for me, even though the subject matter is totally up my alley.

For me, Stephenson is a hit or miss. I hated Snow Crash, I disliked the Cryptonomicon, but I absolutely loved Anathem. I can’t tell you why, just that that’s how it is.

It took me two attempts to get through Stephenson's Cryptonomicon even though it was thematically up my alley. He includes so many tangents and explanations that it can be tedious at times, however interesting some of them might be. I'd almost prefer footnotes to the longer tangents so I could just get into them optionally if I choose.

I enjoyed Snow Crash, but I think he's better at world building than following a plot to a satisfying ending. It seems a common criticism that some of his books end a bit abruptly without enough investment in the conclusion, especially in contrast to the significant detail he puts in to the world building.

I agree, Neil Stephenson is hard work for me too. I kind of enjoyed Snow Crash and didn't find it hard work.

But the other two I've read I've struggled with. Seveneves was amazing for the first 2 thirds but then I just couldn't finish it. I eventually completed the book when I got in to audiobooks.

Termination Shock was just soooo slllloooowwww, nothing happened I almost quit it too.

Oooh... Yeah, Stephenson is another one I should have added to my list. In fact I think I will!