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Drowning
World
Written
by Alan Dean Foster
Reviewed
by Tom A. Wright
Coming
out of reading a book that deals in part with the political troubles
in the Middle East, it is a funny coincidence that the next book
I pick up is a science fiction version of the Israel / Arabic
situation. The planet is Fluva, a world where it rains almost
constantly. Humans, as part of the Commonwealth, are stationed
there, bringing the warlike natives, the Sakuntala, the advantages
of membership. The problem is, another race, the timid but hardworking
Deyzara, were brought along. Over a century later, the Sakuntala
want the Deyzara off their planet because they're more financially
successful. With off-world assistance, the more violent of the
Sakuntala implement a devastating plan. With advanced Commonwealth
weapons, they drive the Deyzara out of their homes and destroy
their property. Since the Commonwealth cannot take military action
because there is very little violence against the Deyzara themselves,
the local Chief Administrator must deal with housing and feeding
the homeless, while attempting to find a peaceful resolution.
And on top of this, a discovery out in the wilds of the most hostile
part of Fluva will send shockwaves throughout the planet.
Drowning
World is a very good read, with believable characters and a rich
world. As with far too many books, the ending falls short of its
potential. The excitement level comes to a boil in the middle,
but only simmers in the climax. Still, Drowning World was a great
place to read about. It's not a place I'd wish to call home, though.
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