Plot summary, “Seveneves” by Neal Stephenson in 3 Minutes - Book Review
0"Seveneves" is a science fiction novel written by Neal Stephenson, published in 2015. The title is a contraction of "seven Eves," which hints at the core premise of the story. The novel is known for its ambitious scope, intricate world-building, and exploration of themes related to space, survival, and human adaptation.
The narrative begins with the sudden disintegration of the moon into seven large pieces, an event referred to as the "White Sky." The impending doom becomes clear when scientists realize that these moon fragments will collide with each other, creating a cascade of debris that will eventually rain down on Earth, rendering the planet uninhabitable for thousands of years. Faced with the impending apocalypse, world leaders come together to devise a plan for the survival of humanity.
The decision is made to send a select group of people into space to live on a cluster of interconnected space habitats, known as the Cloud Ark. This diverse group of individuals, including scientists, engineers, and other specialists, is tasked with ensuring the survival and continuity of the human species. The story unfolds in two parts: the first part focuses on the immediate efforts to evacuate Earth and establish the Cloud Ark, while the second part explores the challenges faced by the descendants of these survivors, thousands of years into the future.
"Seveneves" delves into various scientific and technical details, from space technology to genetics, and it explores the social and political dynamics that arise within the confined space of the Cloud Ark. The novel is praised for its meticulous attention to scientific accuracy and its portrayal of how humanity might confront a cataclysmic event on a global scale.
As with many of Neal Stephenson's works, "Seveneves" is a complex and thought-provoking novel that combines elements of hard science fiction with speculative and philosophical themes, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre.