The Caves of Steel
by Isaac Asimov
Description
The first of Asimov's robot novels, chronicling the unlikely partnership between a New York City detective and a humanoid robot who must learn to work together. Detective Elijah Baley invesitgates the murder of an offworlder in Spacetown. In the opinion of the Spacers, the murder is tied up with recent attempts to sabotage the Spacer-sponsored project of converting Earth to an integrated human/robot society on the model of the Outer Worlds. To search for the killer in the City's vast caves of steel, Elijah is assigned a Spacer partner named R. Daneel. That's Robot Daneel. And notwithstanding the celebrated Three Laws of Robotics, which should make such a murder impossible, R. Daneel is soon Elijah's prime suspect.
Book Overview
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Title: The Caves of Steel Author: Isaac Asimov ISBN: 9780008277765
OVERVIEW:
Step into the teeming, claustrophobic world of New York City in the distant future with Isaac Asimov's groundbreaking science fiction mystery, The Caves of Steel. Humanity has retreated into vast, self-contained underground cities, dubbed "Caves of Steel," terrified of the open sky and the "Spacers," descendants of Earth colonists who now live in luxurious, technologically advanced orbital habitats and advocate for the decongestion of Earth's overpopulation.
When a Spacer ambassador is murdered, Detective Elijah Baley, an Earthman consumed by prejudice and the anxieties of cave-dwelling life, is assigned to the case. He's given an unprecedented partner: R. Daneel Olivaw, a remarkably humaniform robot detective from the Spacer worlds. Baley, deeply distrustful of robots and resentful of the Spacers, must overcome his biases and work with Daneel to unravel a complex web of political intrigue and murder.
The Caves of Steel is far more than a simple whodunit. It's a profound exploration of prejudice, technological dependence, and the future of humanity. Asimov masterfully crafts a compelling mystery while simultaneously examining the social, economic, and psychological impact of technology on society. The book delves into themes of overpopulation, resource scarcity, and the fear of the unknown, issues that remain highly relevant in our own rapidly changing world.
Through Baley's journey, Asimov confronts readers with their own biases and encourages them to question the assumptions they make about those who are different. The relationship between Baley and Daneel is the heart of the novel, evolving from suspicion and animosity to grudging respect and ultimately, a burgeoning partnership that challenges the very definition of humanity.
The Caves of Steel is a cornerstone of Asimov's Robot series and a foundational work in the science fiction genre. Its innovative blend of detective fiction and social commentary, combined with its compelling characters and thought-provoking themes, makes it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today. It's a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complex relationship between humans and technology, and the enduring power of empathy and understanding.
Categories
2018-03-05
Voyager
272
EN
978-0-00827-776-5
£6.20
Condition: Like New
Seller Information
Seller: Martin Phee
Listed on 6/23/2025