"Ready Player One" is a science fiction novel by Ernest Cline, set in a dystopian future where people escape their bleak reality by immersing themselves in a virtual reality universe called the OASIS. The story follows a teenager named Wade Watts, who embarks on a quest to find an Easter egg hidden within the OASIS, which promises the winner immense wealth and control over the virtual world. The narrative explores themes of escapism, nostalgia, and the impact of technology on society. It features numerous references to 1980s pop culture, including video games, movies, and music, which play a significant role in the characters' journey and the challenges they face.