Review: "Children of Memory" by Adrian Tchaikovsky, 2022

Children of Memory by Adrian Tchaikovsky, 2022
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In "Children of Memory," the intriguing third volume of Adrian Tchaikovsky's celebrated "Children of Time" space opera series, readers are treated to a fascinating exploration of a multispecies, interstellar, starfaring civilization. As they voyage to a mysterious planet originally intended for human terraforming and settlement, the narrative delves into complex themes of cultural interference, self-awareness, and the nature of sentience.

The story is told through the perspectives of Liff, a perceptive adolescent from the colony, and Miranda, a visitor who advocates for intervention in the colony's politics. The book raises thought-provoking questions reminiscent of Star Trek's Prime Directive, as the characters grapple with the implications of meddling in the affairs of less technologically-advanced societies.

A particularly captivating aspect of the story involves the introduction of a bonded pair of evolved corvids. These characters challenge conventional notions of sentience, as they demonstrate complex behaviors yet question their own self-awareness. Their unique existence prompts readers to reconsider the nature of consciousness and the possibility of sentient life beyond human understanding.

Although the story's pacing is slow at the outset, it gradually builds momentum as the underlying cause of the planet's disconcerting situation is unveiled. Some reviewers have criticized the portrayal of Miranda and the Nod creature, and my analysis agrees that their internal conflicts and resulting characterizations contribute to a compelling narrative, mostly.

"Children of Memory" showcases Tchaikovsky's signature thought-provoking ideas, unique philosophical quandaries, and richly developed characters, making it a captivating and worthwhile addition to the series. Despite its initial slow pacing, the novel rewards readers with a deep, immersive story that broadens their understanding of the complex universe introduced in the previous installments.

I rate this novel 4.75 out of 5 stars.

View all my reviews