Forward The Foundation

by Isaac Asimov
Forward The Foundation cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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  • ID: 6581
  • Added: 2025-11-25
  • Updated: 2025-11-28
  • ISBN: 9780553900965
  • Publisher: Spectra
  • Published: 2012-02-22
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Forward the Foundation is the second prequel novel in Isaac Asimov's legendary Foundation series, set against the backdrop of a crumbling Galactic Empire. Hari Seldon, the brilliant scientist, is on a mission to perfect his revolutionary theory of psychohistory, which predicts the future of large populations. As the Empire teeters on the brink of collapse, Seldon becomes a pawn in a dangerous game of power, with various factions seeking to control his life's work. Among his adversaries are a populist demagogue, the weak-willed Emperor Cleon I, and a ruthless militaristic general. In his final act of service to humanity, Seldon must protect psychohistory from those who would weaponize it, embarking on a journey to find its true heirs, beginning with his own granddaughter and the dream of a new Foundation. /n/n This novel is a thrilling exploration of power, destiny, and the struggle to shape the future of humanity. Asimov's intricate world-building and thought-provoking themes make Forward the Foundation a compelling addition to the Foundation series, offering a glimpse into the origins of psychohistory and the challenges faced by those who seek to change the course of history.

Reviews
Kara Reviews · Kara Babcock · 2021-04-15
good 3.00

The Foundation series is a classic, and this book continues that tradition with its engaging storytelling and thought-provoking themes. The reviewer acknowledges its strengths but also notes some areas where it falls short.

Kara Babcock acknowledges the Foundation series as a classic and appreciates this book for its engaging storytelling and thought-provoking themes. She notes that the series has its strengths, particularly in its exploration of psychohistory and the impact of individual actions on the course of history. However, she also points out that some of the plot points can feel thin and the pacing can be uneven, which slightly detracts from the overall experience. Despite these minor criticisms, she still finds the book to be a worthwhile read for fans of science fiction.

Quick quotes

    The Foundation series is obviously a classic science fiction series, and I won't argue otherwise.

    But if you have read my reviews of the other books, you know that I have my issues with the series.

    Overall, it's a solid entry in the series, but not without its flaws.

The Guardian · 2013-05-17
brilliant 5.00

This book is highly recommended for its engaging narrative and deep exploration of its themes. The reviewer praises it for its accessibility and enjoyment for a wide range of readers.

The reviewer from The Guardian expresses a high level of enjoyment for this book, recommending it to a wide audience. They appreciate the engaging narrative and the deep exploration of themes such as destiny and the impact of individual actions. The reviewer also notes that the book is accessible and enjoyable for readers of various ages, making it a versatile and rewarding read. They particularly highlight the book's ability to balance complex ideas with an engaging story, making it a standout in the series.

Quick quotes

    I really enjoyed this book, ten stars for Forward the Foundation!

    I would recommend this to practically anyone above the age of ten, who enjoys classic books.

    It's a book that balances complex ideas with an engaging story.

SciFi Review · 2007-06-25
intriguing 4.00

The novel offers a deeper exploration of Hari Seldon and the psychohistory project, providing a more intimate look at the character and his work. It is praised for its intricate world-building and thoughtful character development.

This review highlights how the novel delves into the complexities of Hari Seldon's character and the psychohistory project, offering a richer understanding of the series' foundational elements. The reviewer appreciates the detailed world-building and the nuanced portrayal of Seldon, making it a standout in the series. They also note the thoughtful exploration of themes such as destiny and the impact of individual actions on the course of history, which adds depth to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    This novel simply gives us a closer look at Hari Seldon and the progress of the psychohistory project at Streeling University.

    The novel offers a deeper exploration of Hari Seldon and the psychohistory project, providing a more intimate look at the character and his work.

    It is praised for its intricate world-building and thoughtful character development.

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