Foundation and Empire

By: Isaac Asimov

Narrated by: Scott Brick

The second novel in Isaac Asimov’s classic science-fiction masterpiece, the Foundation series

Led by its founding father, the psychohistorian Hari Seldon, and utilizing science and technology, the Foundation survived the greed and barbarism of its neighboring warrior-planets. Now cleverness and courage may not be enough. For the Empire—the mightiest force in the Galaxy—is even more dangerous in its death throes. Even worse, a mysterious entity called the Mule has appeared with powers beyond anything humanly conceivable. Who—or what—is the Mule? And how is humanity to defend itself against this invulnerable avatar of annihilation?

Filled with nail-biting suspense, nonstop action, and cutting-edge speculation, Foundation and Empire is the story of humanity’s perpetual struggle against the darkness that forever threatens to overwhelm the light—and of how the courage of even a determined few can make all the difference in the universe.

Great, but a little dated

Would you consider the audio edition of Foundation and Empire to be better than the print version?

Hard to say since I read the print version of the Foundation Trilogy as a teenager in the early '60s. Now, I would definitely give the nod to Scott Brick's reading.

The real problem, for me, is that 50 years have passed since I first read this and it is painfully clear that, as great a writer as Asimov is, he couldn't think outside the box with respect to the future of science. Other than the Faster Than Light concept of "Jumps" (that all SF writers resort to in one form or another when writing about interstellar travel), the science postulated for many millenia in the future, seems antiquated and quaint in 2012.

But in many ways, that was never really the point of the Foundation Trilogy. The evolution of cultures and very large social structures (and the attempt to successfully manipulate them is as fascinating now as it was way back when.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Beta is the most complex and interesting character to me. Since I already knew who the Mule was, I was more able to concentrate on her and her reaction to The Mule, and his to her. If you're reading/listening to the story for the first time, it's almost impossible not to get caught up in the mystery and miss the underplay.

Which scene was your favorite?

The killing of the Prince/Emperor is particularly gripping, especially as it's narrated. It's a turning point in Beta's understanding and Scott's reading is brilliant.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

I'd say the description of Magnifico's first playing of the instrument for Beta and Ebling. What an experience something like that would be! I think it could only be approached by music or art that really touches your soul.

Epic story and amazing narration

This is the epic and excellent sequel to the first foundations book. Nothing I can say will add to what has already been said about this book. So I will just add my voice to the already large chorus of praise. Additionally, the vocal performance of this book is top notch. Not only does it get across the emotions of the book, but it adds to the overall experience.

Interesting

I enjoyed this reading and will continue the series. Amazing the imagination of Asimov 70 years ago. Seems like it could’ve been written yesterday.

Continues the awesome sci-fi classic series!

Got the first book in the Foundation series to listen to on a cross-country trip with my 16 yr old son. He loved it so much we bought and listened to this second book as well. And to be cleared, he loved it so much we bought the next 2 books to listen to on our various road trips this summer. He just loves this series! Also forgot to mention in my last review that the first 4 books in the series are narrated by Scott Brick who is excellent!. So truly worth the credit!

Most Excellent!!

I have listened to Scott Brick narrate other works and he has never disappointed! This is one of my favorite series and he just makes it all the more brilliant.