“This is hard sci-fi done right.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review). “One of the enduring classics of science fiction.” —George R.R. Martin
Deep in the future, natives of the planet Hydros, an ocean planet whose inhabitants live on artificial floating islands, force the entire human population of the island of Sorve into exile, leaving the outcasts to ponder their fate, their past, and the true purpose of humanity.
After a human offense against the natives of Hydros, the human population of the island of Sorve are ordered to leave. Forbidden on all other islands, in a flotilla of ships they seek the semi-mythical island of the Face of the Waters. During their journey they are forced to learn more about themselves, leading to questions about both religion and the purpose of Man. At the end of the novel Robert Silverberg addresses what it means to be human, and explores what unites and divides humanity.
This new edition of THE FACE OF THE WATERS, published with the author's full support, brings Silverberg’s brilliant novel back into the must-read science-fiction canon, after decades of being out of print.
"Deep in the future, after a human offense against the natives of Hydros, the human population of the island of Sorve are ordered to leave. Forbidden on all other islands, in a flotilla of ships they seek the semi-mythical island of the Face of the Waters. During their journey they are forced to learn more about themselves, leading to questions about both religion and the purpose of humanity, all while facing danger from outside and within"--
“Nothing short of stunning.” —Fantasy Book Review
“A riveting tale of an epic voyage of survival in a hostile environment.” —Fantastic Fiction
Past Praise for ROBERT SILVERBERG
“Robert Silverberg is our best . . . Time and time again he has expanded the parameters of science fiction.” ―The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction
“One of science fiction's modern masters . . . His words and his work have shaped the whole direction of the field.” ―Chicago Sun-Times
“Done Silverberg's way, science fiction is a fine art.” ―Associated Press
“The John Updike of science fiction.” ―The New York Times Book Review
“A master of his craft and imagination.” ―Los Angeles Times
