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There’s a sub-genre of sci-fi referred to as “Big Dumb Object�� for stories about big, wondrous objects that defy explination or have some sort of air of mystery to them. Often inhuman in origin, investigating the BDO usually acts as the mcguffin that drives the plot.

In Eon the Earth encounters one of these BDOs in the form of The Stone, a massive asteroid that parks itself in in Earth orbit during a rather politically tense period between the NATO and soviet governments. Oh yea, this was written before the fall of the Berlin wall. there are strong elements of Cold War politics throughout the story. It’s discovered the asteroid is hollow, and as the investigation into the nature of the stone continues amazing things are discovered.

I originally read this at a very young age and I found it fascinating. Rereading it after reading Rendezvous with Rama I can see where its influence Greg Bear, but it’s still a great read. The exploration of long abandoned cities from Humanity’s far future, the discovery of the Way, and the elements of transhumanism all combine to make this one of my favorite books. At four stars out of five I’d definitely recommend this!