"great space opera"
In the far distant future, mankind has colonized other
worlds and made alliances with many sentient species. On
Earth people live in small apartments in huge towers miles
high. Whatever land isn't used for habitation is used for
growing food, which means that the flora and fauna is
pretty much extinct. Whatever animals are left are
cherished by the arkists who need to take them off planet
since a law was passed saying that all non-humans on earth
must be destroyed. Jewel Delis is determined that dogs will have a place to
live free and she has a staunch supporter in someone highly
placed in Earth's government. She travels with her brother
Paul to the planet Moss to see if they can find a way of
communicating with beings of different color light. Moss
and it's moon Treasure also play an intricate part in the
canine breeding program but this is a strange and unusual
planet, one that will take Jewel on the adventure of a
lifetime. Sheri S. Tepper is one of the best world builders in the
science fiction genre; a writer who can make alien beings
and unique planets seem very real and alive. The heroine
is very committed to saving the dogs and she makes huge
sacrifices to ensure their survival and that will endear
her to readers. A sub-plot involving two species
determined to wipe out humanity is a pivotal and necessary
device to advance the story line. THE COMPANIONS is a
special work, one that will appeal to fans who love great
space opera. Harriet Klausner
Reviewed by PNR Group Member
Posted August 8, 2003
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