Second Foundation

stranded on the edge of the solar system with no radio no power and running out of air. I cououldn't take it -i quit. utter isolation.

Boring

Second Foundation, the third in Asimov's intended Foundation trilogy (later expanded to five, plus prequels and connections to the Robot series), changes perspective in an already mind-expanding series. The book, separated into two sections (Search by the Mule and Search by the Foundation), allows the reader to understand the inner workings of the Second Foundation itself,...more

Second Foundation, the third in Asimov's intended Foundation trilogy (later expanded to five, plus prequels and connections to the Robot series), changes perspective in an already mind-expanding series. The book, separated into two sections (Search by the Mule and Search by the Foundation), allows the reader to understand the inner workings of the Second Foundation itself, which has previously operated under anyone's radar. With the first section pitting the Mule, who emerged powerful at the close of Foundation and Empire, against the Second Foundation itself, I found myself rooting for the latter. The next section calls for an ironic reversal: after setting up the Second as heroic, Asimov places it in the position of enemy to the First. With the Foundation itself as aggressor, the sheer fun and cleverness in each side's characters had me refusing to take sides, a willing victim for the unexpected resolution. The constant stream of revelations ("I know where the Second Foundation REALLY is!") makes for a breathless combination of suspense and humor. I think this book is one of Asimov's masterpieces in that respect. Asimov undertook a great challenge in writing a series spanning centuries: characters are transient. Every few chapters, a new generation of protagonists must be introduced. He succeeds brilliantly in continuously developing strong characters with pathos and drive (though sometimes lacking a bit in the dimension that more time might lend). I recommend the Foundation series to anyone: sci-fi addict, Asimov devotee, drama lover, or someone just looking for a quick, satisfying read. The entire series is classic, and Second Foundation is my favorite installment in the bunch. Five stars? Absolutely.   hide

vakho