Children of Memory Summary
Children of Time is a science fiction novel written by British author Adrian Tchaikovsky. The novel was first published in 2015 and went on to win the Arthur C. Clarke Award in 2016. The book was praised for its originality, engaging characters, and thought-provoking themes.
The story of Children of Time is set in a distant future, where humanity has become extinct due to a catastrophic event. However, before their demise, they had created a nanovirus that was meant to accelerate the evolution of certain animals on different planets in the hope of creating a new intelligent species. The virus was supposed to target monkeys, but due to an unforeseen accident, it ended up infecting a species of spiders on a remote world.
The novel follows the story of the spiders, who over the course of millennia, develop into a highly intelligent and advanced civilization. They create their own language, technology, and culture, and begin to explore their world and the universe around them. The novel also follows the story of a group of humans who are in stasis on a spaceship, searching for a new home for humanity.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Children of Time is the way Tchaikovsky explores the themes of evolution, intelligence, and consciousness. The novel asks questions about what it means to be intelligent, what it means to be conscious, and what the implications of our own evolution might be. Through the story of the spiders, Tchaikovsky shows us a possible path for the evolution of intelligence and the emergence of a new civilization.
Another interesting aspect of the novel is the way Tchaikovsky portrays the relationship between humans and the spiders. The humans in the novel are not portrayed as the heroes or saviors of the story, but rather as flawed and imperfect beings who have made mistakes in their pursuit of progress. The spiders, on the other hand, are shown as complex and nuanced characters with their own motivations and desires. Through this portrayal, the novel raises questions about our relationship with the natural world and our responsibility to the other species that share our planet.
In conclusion, Children of Time is an excellent science fiction novel that explores complex themes in an engaging and thought-provoking way. Tchaikovsky's writing is both imaginative and insightful, and his portrayal of the spiders is both fascinating and compelling. If you're a fan of science fiction or just looking for a great book to read, I highly recommend Children of Time.
