The Rod of Light
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 First edition | |
| Author | Barrington J. Bayley |
|---|---|
| Cover artist | Terry Oakes |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Science fiction |
| Publisher | Methuen Publishing |
Publication date | October 1985 |
| Publication place | United Kingdom |
| Media type | Print (Paperback) |
| Pages | 193 |
| ISBN | 0-413-58160-8 |
| Preceded by | The Soul of the Robot |
The Rod of Light is the thirteenth science fiction novel by Barrington J. Bayley and his only sequel (to 1974's The Soul of the Robot).
Plot summary
[edit]The book continues the story of Jasperodus, who is now in conflict with Gargan, a ruthless robot attempting to make his own soul.
Literary significance and reception
[edit]Rhys Hughes described the Jasperodus series as slighter than average for Bayley, covering ground more thoroughly explored in John Sladek's Roderick series.[1] Similar opinions were expressed by John Clute in The Encyclopedia of Science Fiction.[2]
Dave Langford reviewed The Rod of Light for White Dwarf #73, and stated that "Concepts by Jorge Luis Borges, action by Doc Smith, sense of humour Bayley's own."[3]
Brian Stableford said that since the novel builds on the themes of The Soul of the Robot, it was less inventive than much of Bayley's work but "still a delight to read."[4]
References
[edit]- ^ "Annihilation Factotum: The work of Barrington J. Bayley". The Council for the Literature of the Fantastic. Archived from the original on 4 October 2012. Retrieved 18 November 2012.
- ^ "Bayley, Barrington J.". SF Encyclopedia, 3rd Edition. Retrieved 18 November 2012.
- ^ Langford, Dave (January 1986). "Critical Mass". White Dwarf. No. 73. Games Workshop. p. 9.
- ^ "The Rod of Light", Fantasy Review 88, February 1986