Mankind is but one of a myriad of species, but even so they carved a large space for themselves. The galaxy is an enormous place, and everyone finds their niche here. Farther away, more advanced automation, faster than light travel, and even transcendence are possible. The Slow Zone is where Earth is located, and our current technology is appropriate for its conditions. As a traveler moves away from the center, the conditions become more favorable, and more advanced technology works. Closest to the galactic center, the prevailing physical laws don’t allow for any technology, and higher organisms may even die. This is a basic physical fact, not an arbitrary boundary.
In this setting, the universe is divided into several technological zones. Add to it the huge influence the worldbuilding exerted over future science fiction works, and you’d have a bona fide classic, if it wasn’t for a few shortcuts taken with the protagonists. The scope of the worldbuilding, richness of characters and attention to detail are impressive, any they highlight the efficient writing that makes reading this book a true pleasure. As far as expansive space operas go, this novel is mind-blowing.
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