Content levels
Trigger warnings
Positive tags
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Themes
Synopsis
Winner of the 1980 Nebula Award, Timescape has since become a classic of the science fiction genre, combining hard science, bold speculation, and human drama—a challenging and triumphant tale told by a master storyteller. 1998. Earth is falling apart, on the brink of ecological disaster. But in England a tachyon scientist is attempting to contact the past, to somehow warn them of the misery and death their actions and experiments have visited upon a ravaged planet. 1962. JFK is still president, rock 'n' roll is king, and the Vietnam War hardly merits front-page news. A young assistant researcher at a California university, Gordon Bernstein, notices strange patterns of interference in a lab experiment. Against all odds, facing ridicule and opposition, Bernstein begins to uncover the incredible truth . . . a truth that will change his life and alter history . . . the truth behind time itself.
Tags
Is Timescape appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
This hard science fiction novel contains complex scientific concepts and themes of ecological disaster. Some mild tension and scientific opposition, but no graphic content or strong language. Best for mature readers who can handle dense technical material.
What to know going in
This book has mild violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include environmental disaster and anxiety.
Publisher ages reflect reading level; our rating reflects content maturity — they can differ.
Who'll love this
Teens interested in physics, time travel paradoxes, and how science might save the world will find this fascinating.