Nova by Samuel R. Delany
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Re-read. I was always pretty much overwhelmed by just how GOOD Delany's SF is. I mean, shockingly so, on so many different levels.

His characters are rich, varied, and memorable. His worldbuilding, more so. And best of all, and especially in this particular novel, it's downright mythical.

It's true SF, straddling the line between adventure, mystery, REVENGE, empire economics, and obsession. The grizzled old pilot hunting his white whale in the form of compressed energy stolen from a nova. The traveling artists, whether sensory-immersion or a pure novelist (two new friends signing on the crew). Interstellar political schemes between two great powerhouses, boiled down to their eldest sons and their everlasting hate.

It's mythical, gorgeous, and so rich.

When I think back over all of the SF I've read over the years, some truly stand out. This is one of them. Bigger than life, as mythical as Moby Dick, but much more present and readable.

I totally recommend this for anyone. Some things ought not to be forgot. And this one ought to stand the test of time just fine.



Personal note:
If anyone reading my reviews is be interested in reading my SF (Very hard SF, mind you), I'm open to requests.

Just direct message me in goodreads or email me on my site. I'd love to get some eyes on my novels.

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