I've been a fan of Clarke for decades, but this book is the least exciting, least interesting, least everything he has ever done. The story is mundane and predictable and without any of the facination that held my interest in earlier books. This book opens at a low level of interest and maintains it throughout.Clarke uses this book as a soapbox for insulting anyone of faith (calling them "Un-Sane"). After his last few books I swore I would not read anything else he published - I should have kept my word.There are many better ways to spend your time than to read this book - trimming your nails, waiting in line for a movie, and going to the dentist are just a few.