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• Great Sci Fi

  I read this book many years ago loved it and never forgot it. I searched it out on Amazon and ordered the 3 books in the Ragged Astronauts series. I was worried that when I started reading the series it wouldnt be as good as I remembered from so many years ago. When I started it was a relief to find that the books were just as good as I remembered if not better, I read all three books in a week and they now have pride of place on my bookshelf.

• An interesting solution to an energy crisis

  Bob Shaw's The Ragged Astronauts is an alternate universe (pi equals exactly 3 there) tale where two planets (Land and Overland) exist in close enough proximity to each to share atmosphere. The civilization on Land is pre-industrial with the beginnings of a budding Renaissance. The main energy source is provided by a unique tree, but there is an vague symbiosis with an ethereal flying creature that can poison humans. As the energy source is depleted, the aerial attacks increase and the decision is made to travel to Overland by hot air balloon to settle that world. There are religious overtones with that world being regarded as heaven. The main character is an out of place philosopher (their term for scientists) who manages to annoy just about everyone. He goes on to distinguish himself in battle and becomes the lead balloon pilot. Shaw crafts a credible world on the verge of scientific understanding. At the same time, the strange symbiosis between the trees and the creatures almost defies explanation until late in the tale. The political maneuvers and the interpersonal tensions make for an engaging story.

• Pretty good !

  Pretty good !

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