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On a mission from Earth to study the distant planet, Maara, thirty-six specialists from the crew are taken captive and placed on a foreign planet. These original settlers are tasked with continuing humanity on the landmass they name Our Island. The group works together to create a sustainable society on this strange planet with very little biodiversity. As the settlers begin to create and procreate, they are aware of their unique ability to leave their descendants a foundation of knowledge that enables rapid, significant advances. Though the planet presents many obstacles, the human race manages to continue and build a successful society. After 500 years, the descendants of the settlers are prepared to explore their universe in search of answers to the cosmic question that has plagued their ancestors: "Why are we here?"
The imaginative storytelling and worldbuilding in this novel are impressive. From the story's beginning, readers are plunged into a strange world where characters are left to fend for themselves, with no clothing or tools at their disposal. Life is a struggle, but thanks to the settlers' skills, they establish themselves in this strange new land. They leave their descendants as much knowledge as possible in texts, which become the historical record. The second and third sections of the novel follow the descendants' first space exploration as they begin in earnest their search for the truth. Castles' imagination knows no bounds as he reveals the long-lost secrets of these displaced humans. Readers will eagerly fly through this entertaining and thought-provoking sci-fi offering's unique take on the human condition.