Sword Art Online, Vol. 02: Aincrad

This second book set in the SAO universe is actually four short stories. We have a story each from Silica, Lisbeth, Asuna and Kirito which take place while Aincrad is still being cleared. An odd choice for a second book but we learn things like rules on how to become a beast tamer from Silica, how Lisbeth felt when the game was cleared, what drove Asuna to become one of the best players, how The Army became the guild we saw in the anime, and the change in purpose Kirito had when becoming a member of the Moonlit Black Cats.
I enjoyed how each story was from a different view point since the anime focuses on Kirito's journey through SAO. Hearing from a few of the females was great, even though each felt emotionally attached to Kirito. Then again it's hard not to when the guy saves you or helps you become a better player without asking for anything in return.
I'll be looking forward to the next novel even though we're venturing away from Aincrad. I supposed that's what the progressive novels are for, delving deeper into the effort it took to clear SAO.  :)