The Currents of Space
By Isaac Asimov
Tor, $23.95, 239 pages
In this story of a far-flung humanity, the planet Florina is subjugated by the planet Sark. But when a Spatio-analyst learns that the world of Florina is soon to be extinct, a web of political intrigue that will change the relationship between Florina and Sark begins.
The story itself is small-scale, focusing only on characters and not the creation of an epic. There are Rik, the psycho-probed stranger; Valona, the big millworker; and Myrlyn, the Florinan with a chip on his shoulder for his Sark overlords. The story is primarily a detective thriller set in space, as the three protagonists try to find Rik’s tormentor and solve the puzzle of the end of Florina. The plot is uncomplicated in its progress, though fast-paced and quite entertaining. This is classic science fiction, just as the genre was finding its voice – a voice now defined by much of Asimov’s work. This is a great narrative for new readers intimidated by Asimov’s more complex Foundation novels. As well, those who like uncomplicated space opera that is part mystery and part political thriller will enjoy The Currents of Space.
Reviewed by John Ottinger III
One cannot go a long way down Literature’s avenue without returning to the classics. Your review made me want to go lurk about the ‘A’ section o f the Sci-Fi stacks.