David Brin - Startide Rising

“Startide Rising” is a science fiction novel by David Brin, published in 1983. Set in the Uplift Universe, it follows the adventures of the crew of the spaceship Streaker, which is a human-augmented ship carrying a group of genetically uplifted dolphins and their human handlers. The narrative unfolds as Streaker makes a startling discovery: evidence of an ancient civilization on a distant planet.

As the crew grapples with the implications of their find, they become targets for various alien factions eager to claim the knowledge and power associated with the discovery. The story alternates between the perspectives of the dolphin crew members, who exhibit remarkable intelligence and emotion, and their human counterparts, illustrating the complex dynamics of interspecies relationships and the ethics of Uplift.

Themes of survival, identity, and the quest for knowledge permeate the narrative, as the characters navigate political intrigue and existential challenges. Brin’s exploration of the nature of sentience and the responsibilities that come with it raises profound questions about evolution, consciousness, and the interconnectedness of life across the galaxy.

“Startide Rising” received critical acclaim for its rich world-building, character depth, and philosophical depth, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of contemporary science fiction.