Don't let the distant planet setting fool ya... This book isn't your typical sci-fi. If anything, it would probably be more at home in the philosophy section.

Of course, it is quite usual for sci-fi novels to tackle a big question or theme. The added scope of the setting allows for some interesting extrapolation of themes and ideas. (I knoweth of what I speak, honest, lol. My dissertation in uni was on character development in sci-fi and cult tv...)

But Zindell isn't content with playing with one or two big questions. He reaches out and grabs them all, and blends them seamlessly into a narrative that should be one huge mess in its ambition, but is far, far from it. It is, in fact, halla.

This should be incredibly difficult to read, but isn't. It's one you want to take relatively slowly, certainly, in order to take it all in fully, but it's such a smooth, easy read that this isn't a chore at all.

Very highly recommended, and a well-deserved 5 stars. ( )

This is the first book in one of the most underrated trilogies in SF. having seen so many lists of "the best SF books ever" and largely agreeing with the placings of the majority, I am always disappointed not to see this book and it's companions feature more highly.
The novel is as sweeping and as epic in its scope as Asimov's Foundation trilogy but the characters pull you through the story more engagingly as you become entangled in their individual search for answers.
This is a wonderful tale of one mans personal quest set against the backdrop of the entire universe and the story of mankind . Running through the tale are the tangled imprints of philosophy and religion and the nature of humanity in a technologically advanced society where AI's have become godlike in their powers. The previous reviews do not do justice to the scope of the novel or the complexity of universe Zindell has created, as is evidenced by the critical response to the linked revue, that cites long paragraphs as an impediment to enjoyment. To find out what the novel is really about you have to just read the book, for those who get it it's a great read and a whole universe to loose yourself in. Think shades of Asimov with a touch of William Gibson. ( )

Over-the-top but fun and occassionally deep, plus grand-scale world-building. Kind of Atlas Shrugged for existentialism. Only, you know, good. ( )

http://www.sfreader.com/read_review.asp?ID=340 ( )

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