Scan barcode
A review by wincher2031
Deathworld 1 by Harry Harrison
4.0
An engaging bit of interstellar SF. Harrison deftly explores human nature through the rampant survivalism on Pyrrus, the titular Deathworld, using well timed humour and a straight forward narrative which dives deeper than is first telegraphed.
Another case of not judging a book by its cover, do not expect a typical creature-feature here. The story instead explores a more human dilemma, showing how systems are put in place to tame the wilderness by preparing people for life within it. The protagonist (as the outsider finding himself in a strange land and vehicle for the reader) Jason dinAlt's intervention serves as a potent reminder that what we call civilisation is only a wafer-thin layer separating us from a return to instinct-driven survival. It can be read as both an escapist adventure and a social commentary and for that I recommend it to any fans of Star Trek, specifically those trapped-on-a-planet type episodes.
Another case of not judging a book by its cover, do not expect a typical creature-feature here. The story instead explores a more human dilemma, showing how systems are put in place to tame the wilderness by preparing people for life within it. The protagonist (as the outsider finding himself in a strange land and vehicle for the reader) Jason dinAlt's intervention serves as a potent reminder that what we call civilisation is only a wafer-thin layer separating us from a return to instinct-driven survival. It can be read as both an escapist adventure and a social commentary and for that I recommend it to any fans of Star Trek, specifically those trapped-on-a-planet type episodes.