Publications: Reviews
EATER by Gregory Benford
Orbit 2001 386pp £6.99
Gregory Benford’s new novel is packaged as a “science fiction thriller” -- following the trends of both authors and publishers as they try to reach larger audiences. In this case, if there should be any doubt that the “thriller” aspect might overshadow the “science” aspect, then it would be unfounded. And the “fiction” element, in this briskly narrated novel, is certainly in evidence as well!
Astronomer Benjamin Knowlton finds out about a strange object rapidly approaching the Solar System. It soon becomes apparent that it is far stranger than anyone could’ve ever imagined. It is a black hole, heading straight towards Earth. And what’s more, it wants to talk.
Three billion years old, the Eater has been touring the universe, “gathering” planetary civilisations on the way. It soon discloses its origins -- and says that it wants to gather a harvest of human minds.
The detection of, and communication with, the Eater occupies the bulk of the novel, and full of fascinating physics and speculation it is too. (There is also a brief mention of superior software in Sri Lanka!) The lives of the three main characters are interwoven skillfully, as they interact with the Eater and its demands.
Although the actual upbeat ending is to be expected, it is a thrilling journey there, with the heart-strings, both emotionally and scientifically, plucked in the right places at the right times.
Once again Gregory Benford, who is a professional scientist, shows that he has the knowledge and understanding of physics and how scientists work with each other and the data, and can communicate it in good, serviceable prose that allows free rein to the Sense of Wonder.
Verdict: good, hard sf. Watch the skies!
Copyright (c) 2001 John Howard