Krishna
Well, as prequels go, this is a disappointing book. The (original) Foundation is brilliant in its construction and execution and this,
written by the same author at a much later period, attempts to tell the story ‘before’ the foundation, of Hari Seldon and his development of psychohistory. It reads like a regular science fiction, alright, but not an exceptionally plotted one. It is just a series of events in his life and this is a tale that could have been written by any science fiction author. It features a young Hari Seldon, his benefactor Hummin, his protector Dr. Dors Venabili and others..
The one thing of interest, for those of you who look for allegories in your books is the description of the various parts of Trantor –
Mycogen with its rigid rules of dress and ‘no hair’ policy and segregation of men and women could be a metaphor for the abbeys of this world (Buddhist, Christian or Islamic) and the Dahl sector with short, swarthy men with curly hair and a penchant for moustaches may be Africa, with racial tolerance messages built in.
However, the entire book is transformed by the twists at the end and Asimov demonstrates yet again why is considered one of the best science fiction writers. That, alas, is not enough for me to take back the statements made at the beginning of this piece. Why? Because you have to wait such a long time to be dazzled!
By the way, is it only me, or do I detect a British style in all his writings? (I know Isaac Asimov is American). The characters speak like they would in a Dickens novel or a high end British play featuring well bred gentlemen!
I would award a 6/10 for this one.
— Krishna