A Woman of the Iron People

An “excellent, anthropologically oriented SF tale” about first contact with an alien culture (Publishers Weekly).

Lixia and the members of her human crew are determined not to disturb the life on the planet circling the Star Sigma Draconis which they have begun exploring. But the factions on the mother ship hovering above the planet may create an unintended chaos for both the life on the planet and the humans exploring it. As the anger increases on the ship, the ground crew becomes more and more affected by the conflict and begins to rely on their instincts to keep the project moving forward. Unexpected danger plagues the mission as Lixia is determined to expand her knowledge.

This “intelligent, provocative” novel (Publishers Weekly) explores the mix of fear and fascination as humans and aliens meet, alert to the potential for both mutual enrichment and mutual destruction, and offers “strong characters, well-written dialogue, and a plot full of adventure” (School Library Journal).

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In this excellent, anthropologically oriented SF tale, Li Lixia is one of eight field anthropologists set down on Sigma Draconis II after the first starship from Earth detects pre-industrial intelligent life there. She experiences several of the cultures of the humanoid people of the planet as she travels with Nia, a female exile of the Iron People. Arnason ( Daughter of the Bear King ) introduces Nia and her way of life, then brings in Lixia and, gradually, includes others of the starship's exploratory team. While removed from the starship, the anthropologists remain in contact with it as they all struggle with the question of whether their active intervention will help or harm those whom they encounter. As in life, no clear answers are offered. With its strong prose, meticulously detailed cultures and commanding characterization, this is an intelligent, provocative book.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

YA-- Lixia, a human anthropologist on an alien planet, is forced to contemplate the contradictions of her species when her field work brings her in contact with an extraordinary person who happens not to be human. The experiences of Lixia, Nia, and those who travel with them are journeys in body and spirit across an unexplored terrain. Both the alienation and the affinity are emotions that YAs will immediately recognize. Strong characters, well-written dialogue, and a plot full of adventure make the philosophical theme accessible. This is not a novel for people who devour their science fiction like popcorn. The shifts in point of view and the relatively relaxed pace will discourage those who want simple entertainment. For readers willing to question themselves and to look at what makes them human, however, this book will be an exciting journey. --Cathy Chauvette, Fairfax County Public Library, VA
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.