For a few weeks, I was in a bit of a reading slump. A busy schedule had kept me from doing too much reading, but even in the small pockets of down time that I did have, I felt bored, unproductive, and restless. I was itching for action and a source of adrenaline.

When I read Foundation, I found just that. Foundation depicts an interpretation of the future. But, of course, simply doing that would be unoriginal and boring — after all, there are plenty of books that paint pictures of dystopian futures. What makes it stand out in the vast sea of science fiction novels is that not only does it depict the future world, but it also depicts the future galaxy – now that’s new! In this galaxy, the general scope of society is represented by the Galactic Empire. However, when a highly respected scientist and mathematician predicts the fall of the empire and long Dark Ages to follow, before, eventually, the renaissance of the empire, it is up to the generations to follow the guidelines they are given that are designed to help them identify and navigate their way through the crises of the Dark Ages. It’s confusing and strange, but where’s the fun without the bizarreness?

Moreover, what makes Foundation so refreshing to read are a few select characters who are intelligent, witty, and deliberate. So many characters in media are dull and shallow.  It was satisfying to read about smart, thoroughly developed characters for a change.

I love to get my brain working, which is why books like Foundation which are fast-paced and action-packed and yet deliberate and intelligent are my favorites.  I can’t wait to continue reading Asimov’s books!