For a long time I was waiting for the start, the famous trilogy! I have timed reading, preferring to first make me an opinion on the series robots- I have also not yet complete. So, what say? First, I must warn readers that Asimov would have followed my reading course that new gathered in this first collection are less accessible than those robots. The introduction is sometimes a bit confusing. Indeed, the rapid time frame we followed Asimov (the plot is relayed to each new de- often- centuries) is at first rather unsettling; and systematic change of characters and situations do not allow us to attach ourselves to a specific hero. But this is a process which is not finished getting used to. For it is not the characters themselves are interested Asimov. It is the evolution of the universe, the development of political and economic issues, power relations that come in. In short, it is the story, in this its most timeless. And this is where the fascination comes from the player, where the real suspense is born. By opening this book, one has the impression of entering an empty corridor, a priori infinite, but we believe dimly glimpse the end. It is a story modeled on the birth and decay of the Roman Empire (there are also allusions to Julius Caesar), both effective and remarkable intelligence. Not to mention the infallible building on which it rests. No frills in this first volume; in fact, it's almost too shaded, too elliptical. But that is because the genius of the frame does not clutter of flesh, he cuts to the chase ... An exciting start.
