I can see why other people might really like this. At times, I would be engrossed in the prose, but then it would fall flat. The concept, setting, and story are all compelling. I just didn't like the characters or the dialog or the progression of events. I liked it but at the same time I didn't. 

I would only recommend this to people who have read a lot of science fiction. Not for some gate keeping agenda but because there are better stories out there. Just because some portentous toe jam said this was the greatest single sci-fi doesn't mean you're going to like it or that he's right. Old or original does not equal perfection. 

One neat aspect to an older influential novel like this is that I can see where other fav sci-fi books of mine have pulled inspiration. That recognition is a unique experience that I appreciate. However, that can't make up for the times that I just really wasn't enjoying the experience of reading this. 

I'm conflicted but firm in the thought that this wasn't great.