I’m in favor of encouraging people to read new types of books. But, was it necessary to pitch this book by dissing Heinlein and other golden age greats?
“The City Trilogy,” by Chang Hsi-Kuo. This science-fiction novel (actually a collection of three novellas that are tied together in an arc) is the first English translation of this noted Taiwanese writer’s work. Banish from your mind thoughts of Heinlein, Asimov and Clark, and enjoy this look at the way Chinese culture has shaped thoughts of the future. As the Huhui people try to overthrow their interstellar overlords, the Han, they must gain the cooperation of the several other races that share their planet. Alliances continually shift, and political machinations abound, keeping readers on their toes in this very different allegorical tale.
Hrumph!
Actually, the person who wrote this blurb doesn’t know his/her Heinlein. Fighting to overthrow oppressors? Political machinations? Sounds like any number of Heinlein books — “If This Goes On …,” “The Moon is a Harsh Mistress,” “Red Planet,” etc.
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