This isn't so much the first book of the Uplift series, as it is somewhat of a prequel. The humans and other inhabitants of Earth, including chimps that the humans have given enhanced intelligence, have just been 'discovered' by alien races. While on an expedition to explore the sun in person, a group of humans must deal with aliens on board, and survive an alien plot to keep the humans confined to Earth, meanwhile making discoveries about the Sun.
Brin does his usual great job of writing about humans, technology, aliens, and the implications to people and society, while writing a book thats fun to read. ( )

There certainly are not too many murder mysteries set in the middle of the sun! A man must try to solve what is going on with a killer, as well as keep the diplomatic peace and all this entails. Preventaging sabotage while somewhere that is, shall we say, a little on the hot side, is a high priority for people as well. The ending, denoument, and epilogue is a little odd, but the environment is very interesting.

http://notfreesf.blogspot.com/2006/11... ( )

Great concepts, interesting characters but a disappointingly predictable mystery. ( )

First of the Uplift sextet. Introducing the readers to the turbulent times of the five linked galaxies. Earth is just about recognised as a civilised place having already genetically enhanced some of its natural species to helpful levels. But aliens in the galaxy have been exploring of 10000s of years before man even arose on the Savanah and are not inclined to civility bound by codes of conduct millenia old. Human investigations old technologies new to mankind don't bring any favours and when some "new" is discovered politics starts again.

An interesting concept in a novel universe.
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The latest in my Sci-Fi binge, this book pleasantly surprised me by starting in the middle of the action, much like a good short story would, and skipping all the standard world building (WHOOSH! Our spaceships fly FAST!) and character building (Though humble, turns out our hero is the best at EVERYTHING!) stuff in favor of letting it all come up naturally.

Unfortunately the plot wasn't that compelling for most of the book. It only seemed to gain momentum near the end, but was marred thereabouts by a pretty deus-ex-machina-y finale.

Overall it was an enjoyable read. I heard that the sequels blow this one out of the water; I look forward to reading them. ( )