Prelude to Foundation by Isaac Asimov

Description

“Prelude to Foundation” is a science fiction novel written by Isaac Asimov. Published in 1988, it is part of Asimov’s Foundation series, but it is a prequel to the original trilogy. The Foundation series is one of the most well-known and influential works in the science fiction genre.

“Prelude to Foundation” is set in the same universe as the Foundation series and serves as an origin story for the character Hari Seldon, the mathematician and psychohistorian who plays a crucial role in the Foundation series. The novel explores Seldon’s early life and the development of psychohistory, a fictional branch of mathematics that combines history, sociology, and mathematics to predict the future of large populations.

The story follows Hari Seldon as he becomes aware of the potential decline and fall of the Galactic Empire and the necessity of establishing the Foundation to preserve knowledge and shorten the ensuing dark age. The novel combines elements of science fiction, political intrigue, and Asimov’s trademark exploration of scientific and mathematical ideas.

If you enjoy intricate plots, speculative science, and the exploration of vast future civilizations, “Prelude to Foundation” is a key installment in Asimov’s Foundation series that provides background to the events of the original trilogy.