Foundation by Isaac Asimov is a classic science fiction novel that delves into the story of humanity's downfall and rise through the Foundation. Asimov's writing style captivates readers with intricate plot threads that twist together, focusing on the evolution of society guided by the science of psychohistory. The book spans years, highlighting key turning points in societal growth and development, with a primary focus on the Foundation as the protagonist and the theory of Hari Seldon shaping the future Empire.
The narrative of Foundation is praised for its ability to parallel historical events like the fall of Rome, offering a compelling exploration of how an empire rises, falls, and rebuilds from the ashes. Asimov's storytelling is commended for its ingenious plot and fast-paced nature, despite minimal action. The book is lauded for its unique concept of predicting the future of society through psychohistory, engaging readers with themes of politics, societal evolution, and the inevitability of major events spanning multiple generations.
Genres:
Tropes/Plot Devices:
Topics:
Notes:
From The Publisher:
The first novel in Isaac Asimov's classic science-fiction masterpiece, the Foundation series
SOON TO BE AN APPLE TV+ SERIES, COMING 9/24/21
Nominated as one of America's best-loved novels by PBS's The Great American Read
For twelve thousand years the Galactic Empire has ruled supreme. Now it is dying. But only Hari Seldon, creator of the revolutionary science of psychohistory, can see into the future-to a dark age of ignorance, barbarism, and warfare that will last thirty thousand years. To preserve knowledge and save humankind, Seldon gathers the best minds in the Empire-both scientists and scholars-and brings them to a bleak planet at the edge of the galaxy to serve as a beacon of hope for future generations. He calls his sanctuary the Foundation.
The Foundation novels of Isaac Asimov are among the most influential in the history of science fiction, celebrated for their unique blend of breathtaking action, daring ideas, and extensive worldbuilding. In Foundation, Asimov has written a timely and timeless novel of the best-and worst-that lies in humanity, and the power of even a few courageous souls to shine a light in a universe of darkness.
Ratings (235)
Incredible (41) | |
Loved It (75) | |
Liked It (72) | |
It Was OK (32) | |
Did Not Like (11) | |
Hated It (4) |
Reader Stats (436):
Read It (236) | |
Currently Reading (3) | |
Want To Read (146) | |
Did Not Finish (9) | |
Not Interested (42) |
6 comment(s)
Would have preferred it to have more plot and be faster paced.
Isaac Asimov, along with Arthur C. Clarke, were my gateway into the world of science fiction. In particular Asimov had a distinctive way of writing which really served him well when explaining, and discussing he often high concepts his works are famous for.
Did not finish. Lack of interest
Am I allowed to say that this book reminds me of An Abundance of Katherines by John Green? And that I feel like that book did these themes better? The difference is that that book questioned the premise that math can predict the future, and this one doesn't. It's a modernism VS postmodernism kind of thing.
Slow moving
Thought I was going insane like sorry where are the women at all?? Where is one single woman, not even with dialogue just a woman in a scene?? Oh there is one!!! The first one in the whole book omg!!!! andddd shes getting slapped by her husband for speaking..
What can you read after
Foundation?
About the Author:
Isaac Asimov began his Foundation series at the age of twenty-one, not realizing that it would one day be considered a cornerstone of science fiction. During his legendary career, Asimov penned more than 470 books on subjects ranging from science to Shakespeare to history, though he was most loved for his award-winning science fiction sagas, which include the Robot, Empire, and Foundation series. Named a Grand Master of Science Fiction by the Science Fiction Writers of America, Asimov entertained and educated readers of all ages for close to five decades. He died, at the age of seventy-two, in April 1992.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.
