Beyond Infinity (Paperback)

The genre of science fiction is famed for predicting far distant possible futures, but Benford achieves this on a far greater level. Rather than containing elements which may be reality within a century or so, Beyond Infinity delves into a vastly advanced and far distant future. Yet it is made plausible, even attainable by the well thought out and detailed scientific explanations which provide the basis, depth and texture to the story. Fact and fiction are intertwined with tremendous skill to create something which will leave the reader thinking, and wanting to delve deeper. Those unfamiliar with mathematical physics however will find themselves scratching their heads frequently as their minds are stretched to the very limit and beyond.

In an almost unconceivable billion years from now, the human race has strived to alter the species to attain an almost mechanical perfection. Humanity strives to attain the highest possible level of being, a higher consciousness. The collective term 'human' is no longer applicable as numerous sub-species form as a result of the various stages of advancement, with the Supras being the most highly advanced, and the original models - aptly named 'originals' -at the bottom of the ladder. The universe itself is a highly advanced living entity; conscious life has developed throughout the solar system, and beyond, with inter-dimensional travel having been conquered. Eventually the combined efforts of an alien race and the humans in their quest for higher knowledge created something so powerful it almost destroys the universe. There are obviously some things about life, the universe and everything we are not meant to know. With much of the Earths inhabitants destroyed, Cley is the only remaining 'original' and the key to restoring order and stability to the universe. The subsequent adventure follows Cley and her companion - a giant raccoon with a tremendous wind problem! - on a mind-blowing, if slightly bizarre journey through space and the variety of life contained within it.

The scientific narrative requires more concentration than a game of chess, but there are often enlightening, almost philosophical insights contained within which will make you think, and will unwittingly bring forth a hugely satisfied 'ahh' of comprehension. Packed full of completely bizarre but very imaginative concepts, the originality of this book alone will leave you reeling.

This book failed to engage me on any level and I'm sure that some of the ideas have been used in previous Benford novels. This was an imaginatively distant future (reminiscent of Stapledon and done so much more richly by Wolfe and Vance) but it did not come alive. The characters were charmless and inhuman (rather than, as intended, post-human).

One to be avoided.