Foundation

By Isaac Asimov

Foundation - Isaac Asimov
  • Release Date: 1991-10-01
  • Genre: High Tech Sci-Fi
Score: 4.5
4.5
From 1,978 Ratings

Description

The first novel in Isaac Asimov’s classic science-fiction masterpiece, the Foundation series

THE EPIC SAGA THAT INSPIRED THE APPLE TV+ SERIES FOUNDATION • 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.

Reviews

  • I got lost at the midway point.

    3
    By PatBrown64
    I totally loved the initial hook and premise of the book, but by the 50% mark I realized I had no idea what any of the characters where talking about anymore. I figured it’d become clear if I pressed on, but by 90% I was completely lost. This is probably more of a problem with my reading comprehension than a problem with this book, but for now I’m sticking with the TV+ series.
  • Good hook initially but drags towards the end

    3
    By Nathan El Dooderino
    The story has a great hook initially but gets quickly lost as the context switches from generation to generation from Seldon crisis to Seldon crisis
  • Foundation

    5
    By sparky741
    Every bit as engaging as when I first read it 35 years ago!
  • Great read

    5
    By Chris Dedman
    Great read, even if I preferred the Apple TV Series adaptation with more diversity than the book. Still recommend reading!
  • OG Sci-Fi

    5
    By Ruhdwulf
    Asimov gives us a tightly told tale. Like much of early sci-fi, the character development is minimal. What is necessary and no more. Side Note: The streaming movie is only barely based on the novel.
  • Classic sci-fi

    5
    By 1979bookworm
    Classic sci-fi at its best. Asimov with his world building is so fascinating making you want to be in the story. Spanning centuries, the foundation has interwoven characters and themes that is an amazing blend of adventure and morals.
  • Much better than the Apple Series

    5
    By tbf58
    A small band of Scientists armed with a plan and the task to save all knowledge and mitigate a looming fall and dark ages against the unbelieving Galactic Empire . This formula has made this one of the most enduring science fiction stories . It’s a truth that has its parallel in our earths future history and so that’s why this group of books have been so appealing through the years despite the lack of aliens characters , and space battles .
  • Classic Asimov

    5
    By Keystone72
    Much more biting and thus insightful than the Apple TV series. . .
  • Enthralling from start to finish!

    5
    By K.schoff
    The twists and turns are always fun and difficult to foresee. The writing style is enjoyable. Highly recommend!
  • Wonderful now as when I first read it

    5
    By MG2433
    As Wonderful now as when I first read it in the 50's Asimov is my favorite!