Foundation

by Isaac Asimov
Foundation cover
Good Books rating 4.12
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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Technical
  • ID: 1906
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • ISBN: 9781439507131
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 1951-01-01
  • Formats: 14
  • Reviews: 4

Foundation is a sweeping tale set in a future where the Galactic Empire is crumbling. The story follows Hari Seldon, a mathematician who predicts the empire's fall and the ensuing dark age. To mitigate the coming chaos, Seldon establishes the Foundation, a haven for knowledge and culture. The narrative spans centuries, chronicling the Foundation's struggles and triumphs as it seeks to preserve humanity's achievements. /n/n The book is renowned for its intricate world-building and exploration of societal evolution. It delves into themes of power, governance, and the cyclical nature of history. Isaac Asimov's masterpiece is a cornerstone of science fiction, blending hard science with philosophical depth and political intrigue.

Reviews
The Fantasy Reviews · 2024-02-01
brilliant 4.50

Foundation is praised for its brilliant plot and character-driven narrative. The reviewer finds it to be a simple yet engaging read that takes place over a short period.

The reviewer from The Fantasy Reviews is highly enthusiastic about Foundation, calling it brilliant. They appreciate the simplicity of the plot and the character-driven narrative, which makes the book engaging despite its short timeframe. The reviewer finds the book to be a strong introduction to the series and highlights its compelling ideas. They also mention that the book is a great choice for those looking for a straightforward yet captivating read.

Quick quotes

    Foundation by Isaac Asimov is brilliant.

    If you are looking for a plot that is simple, character-driven, and takes place over a short period of time, this is it.

    The book is a strong introduction to this cornerstone scifi series.

Luke Harkness · 2023-07-07
good 3.75

The book offers a subtle look at how people obtain power on large scales. It is recommended for those interested in the dynamics of power and influence.

The reviewer recommends Foundation for its insightful exploration of power dynamics on a large scale. They appreciate the subtle way in which Asimov delves into the tools and methods people use to gain and maintain power. The reviewer also notes that the book is thought-provoking and offers a unique perspective on societal structures. They conclude that Foundation is a valuable read for anyone interested in the complexities of power and influence.

Quick quotes

    I recommend this book to those that want a more subtle look at how people obtain power on large scales.

    The tools that people use to obtain and maintain power are fascinating.

    It is a thoughtful and insightful exploration of societal structures.

Write Out Loud Blog · 2021-05-02
essential 4.00

The Foundation series is a must-read for sci-fi fans, though it may not be as impactful today as it was in the past. The ideas and themes remain compelling, making it a worthwhile read for those interested in classic science fiction.

This reviewer highlights that the Foundation series is essential reading for any sci-fi enthusiast. They note that while the series may not have the same life-changing impact it once did, the ideas and themes explored are still compelling. The reviewer appreciates the series for its foundational role in the genre and its ability to inspire readers with its vision of the future. They also mention that the series is a great starting point for those looking to explore classic science fiction.

Quick quotes

    The Foundation series is certainly a must-read for sci-fi fans, but it isn't necessarily going to be life-changing today the way it was for me.

    The ideas and themes explored in the series are still compelling and make it a worthwhile read.

    The series is a great starting point for those looking to explore classic science fiction.

Incomplete Futures · 2020-08-03
entertaining 4.25

Foundation is a highly engaging and entertaining work, primarily consisting of action stories. The reviewer appreciates Asimov's ability to give readers enough to keep them engaged throughout.

The reviewer finds Foundation to be a highly engaging and entertaining work, primarily consisting of action stories. They appreciate Asimov's ability to give readers enough to keep them engaged throughout. The reviewer notes that the book's themes and ideas are still relevant and thought-provoking, making it a timeless classic. They also highlight the book's ability to blend science fiction with historical themes, making it a compelling read for both casual and avid readers.

Quick quotes

    Foundation is still a highly engaging and entertaining work.

    Asimov gives the readers enough to keep them engaged throughout.

    The book's themes and ideas are still relevant and thought-provoking.

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