Plot Summary

Startide Rising

David Brin
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Startide Rising

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1983

Book Brief

David Brin

Startide Rising

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1983
Book Details
Pages

494

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kithrup • Futuristic

Theme
Publication Year

1983

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Startide Rising by David Brin follows the crew of the spaceship Streaker, composed of uplifted dolphins and humans, who discover ancient alien artifacts that trigger a pursuit by rival alien species while they seek refuge on the water-covered planet Kithrup. During their ordeal, they face internal conflicts, mutiny, and interstellar battles while attempting to repair their ship and evade capture.

Adventurous

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Challenging

Fantastical

Reviews & Readership

4.2

33,642 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

David Brin's Startide Rising is widely praised for its imaginative world-building, complex plot, and compelling characters, blending hard science fiction with engaging adventure. However, some readers find the narrative pacing uneven and the multiple viewpoints confusing. Overall, it is celebrated for its originality and thought-provoking themes, marking it as a notable entry in the genre.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Startide Rising?

Fans of speculative fiction with rich world-building and complex extraterrestrial cultures will enjoy David Brin's Startide Rising. Comparable to readers of Orson Scott Card's Ender's Game and Larry Niven's Ringworld, this book appeals to those who appreciate scientific intricacy and philosophical depth in their science fiction narratives.

4.2

33,642 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

494

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kithrup • Futuristic

Theme
Publication Year

1983

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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