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55 pages 1 hour read

Foundation and Empire

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1952

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Book Brief

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Isaac Asimov

Foundation and Empire

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1952
Book Details
Pages

282

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Galaxy • Far Future

Publication Year

1952

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

940L

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Super Short Summary

In Foundation and Empire, the Galactic Empire continues its collapse while General Bel Riose seeks to conquer the Foundation, which acts to shorten the resulting dark age. Rogue military figure the Mule later rises to challenge the Foundation with his strange powers, leading to a critical crisis. Historians Bayta and Toran uncover the shocking truth about the Mule and his conquests.

Informative

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Challenging

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.4

223,332 ratings

82%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Foundation and Empire by Isaac Asimov continues the intrigue of its predecessor with masterful storytelling and a gripping narrative. Reviews praise its complex plot and character development, but some criticize the pacing as uneven. Nonetheless, Asimov's blend of science fiction and psychological elements keeps readers engaged and eager for the next installment.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Foundation and Empire?

A reader drawn to Foundation and Empire by Isaac Asimov would likely relish expansive, thought-provoking science fiction with intricate political and social dynamics. Fans of Frank Herbert's Dune or Arthur C. Clarke's 2001: A Space Odyssey will enjoy Asimov's rich world-building and exploration of futuristic themes.

4.4

223,332 ratings

82%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

The Mule

An enigmatic and powerful figure who unexpectedly rises to prominence in the galaxy, posing a formidable threat to the Foundation with his unique abilities and strategic acumen.

A courageous and intelligent protagonist from the Foundation who plays a crucial role in events challenging the established order and the influence of psychohistory.

The visionary behind psychohistory and the Foundation, whose predictions about the future shape the narrative's backdrop, despite unforeseen challenges.

An ambitious and skilled general of the declining Galactic Empire who attempts to conquer the Foundation but encounters political obstacles.

The aging emperor of the Galactic Empire, wary of potential threats from his ambitious general, who takes action to secure his reign.

The emperor's trusted but widely disliked secretary who navigates shifting alliances in the turbulent Imperial court.

A trader and spy for the Foundation who becomes entangled in the Imperial conflict but ultimately relies on the unfolding historical destiny.

A scholar with a personal history of resistance against the Empire, who collaborates with others to resist Imperial ambitions.

A brilliant scientist whose quest for knowledge becomes entangled with larger galactic events and the search for critical information.

Bayta's husband, a member of the trading community who supports his wife's endeavors amidst the galaxy's unfolding crises.

A thoughtful and principled leader from Haven who seeks to protect and strengthen the Foundation against external threats.

A competent and rebellious Foundation officer with ties to the resistance, whose resolve is tested by the Mule's influence.

The authoritarian leader of the Foundation, representing the bureaucratic and oppressive regime that controls its territories.

A spirited and seasoned trader from Haven II, marked by past adventures and familial ties to key characters.

Book Details
Pages

282

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Galaxy • Far Future

Publication Year

1952

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

940L

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