The Lani People

An entertaining, satisfying novel with a simplistic plot and implausible science, is satisfying due to decent characters and substantive issues.

Reviewed by David on May 13, 2002

Genre: Science Fiction (Biology, Slavery)

Synopsis: In the far future, Humanity has expanded to multiple worlds. Faced with many trials and some competition from nearly as sentient, if less aggressive species, the many human cultures agree on one principle: the Humans have rights, the aliens do not. The determination of Humanity is important, and is done with care and science by impartial courts.

Centuries ago, the humanoid Lani have been examined, and determined non-human. Veterenarian Jac Kennon has been hired by a Kardon corporation to take care of the thriving agricultural stock of animals—including the Lani. While conscientious and law-abiding, Kennon can't quite suppress doubts that the intelligent, humanoid, and sometimes playful Lani are much more than animals. But it would take something stronger than a few doubts for the conservative Betan Kennon to tackle a Humanity Trial.

Full Review: The novel is several decades old, and the science basis is implausible even for the time of its publication. However, the central themes—discrimination, greed, morality, justice, interstellar law, love—are durable and appealing. While unsophisticated, the character description is skilled, and the resulting interaction is satisfying, if predictable.

One of the early classics, this novel is worthy of being sought out and read, not so much to demonstrate the evolution of science fiction, as for the pleasure of reading it.

Overall: 5.5; Plot: 5.5; Characters: 6; Style: 6; World-building: 6; Originality: 5;

Copyright date 1962, Corgi Books, 1962, Mass market paperback, 152 pages