Title: Forever Peace
Author: Joe Haldeman
First published October 1, 1997
351 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780441005666 (ISBN10: 0441005667)
Rating: 3.75
Overview
2055 A.D.: The world is at peace, but at what cost? A disillusioned veteran and a brilliant physicist stumble upon a shocking revelation that could unravel everything they know about the world.
But this discovery is not a cause for fear, it’s a call to action. Will they risk everything to change the course of humanity forever?
Forever Peace by Joe Haldeman is a thought-provoking and thrilling sci-fi novel that explores the consequences of war, the power of technology, and the eternal search for peace.
About the Author
Jack C. Haldeman II’s brother is a renowned author, having written 20 novels and five collections of work.
His novel The Forever War was particularly distinguished, as it won the Nebula, Hugo, and Ditmar Awards for best science fiction novel in 1975. Other noteworthy titles include Camouflage, The Accidental Time Machine, and Marsbound, as well as short stories such as “Graves,” “Tricentennial,” and “The Hemingway Hoax.” His latest work, Starbound, is set for release in January.
SFWA President Russell Davis has praised him as “an extraordinarily talented writer, a respected teacher and mentor in our community, and a good friend.”
Haldeman was awarded the Damon Knight Memorial Grand Master in 2010 by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America during the Nebula Awards Weekend in Hollywood, Florida.
Editoral Review
Forever Peace by Joe Haldeman: A Thought-Provoking Exploration of War and Technology
Joe Haldeman’s Forever Peace, published in 1997, is a science-fiction novel that explores the impact of technology on the concept of war and human relationships in the future. Known for his award-winning novel The Forever War, Haldeman once again demonstrates his ability to write a gripping and thought-provoking narrative that challenges readers’ perspectives on war, ethics, and the role of technology in humanity’s future.
Set in the mid-21st century, the novel follows the story of Julian Class, a brilliant physicist who is part of a team tasked with building a machine that can read and manipulate the minds of humans. The ultimate goal is to help maintain world peace by being able to predict potential threats before they can be carried out.
However, when the scientists begin to uncover unexpected and dangerous consequences of their technology, Julian is forced to make difficult choices that challenge his beliefs and values, as well as put his life and those of his loved ones in danger. One of the strengths of Forever Peace is the depth and complexity of the characters, especially Julian, who undergoes a significant transformation as the story unfolds.
Haldeman’s portrayal of human emotions and relationships is both nuanced and realistic, making the characters relatable despite the futuristic setting. The novel also raises thought-provoking questions about free will, ethics, and the nature of war, which will resonate with readers long after they finish the book.
Another notable feature of the book is Haldeman’s writing style, which is clear, concise, and engaging. The pace of the story is fast, with plenty of action and suspense to keep readers hooked.
The author’s descriptions of the futuristic technology and the world-building are vivid and imaginative, creating a vivid and immersive reading experience. However, the book also has some weaknesses.
Some readers might find the ending abrupt and unsatisfying, as some loose ends are left unresolved. Additionally, the novel’s themes and ideas might require some background knowledge of science and philosophy, which could be challenging for some readers.
Despite its limitations, Forever Peace is a highly recommended read for fans of science-fiction and those looking for a thought-provoking exploration of the impact of technology on humanity. The book’s relevance to current events and issues, such as AI and cybersecurity, also makes it a timely and important work.
Overall, Forever Peace is a gripping, suspenseful, and intellectually stimulating novel, deserving of its awards and accolades. Rating: 4/5
Criteria: Character development, writing quality, pacing, plot structure, and themes.
