| Xenocide | |
| Author: | Orson Scott Card |
| Cover Artist: | John Harris[1] |
| Country: | United States |
| Language: | English |
| Series: | Ender's Game series |
| Genre: | Science fiction |
| Published: | 1991 (Legend), 1992 (Tor Books) |
| Media Type: | Print (Hardcover, Paperback & ebook) |
| Pages: | 592 |
| Dewey: | 813/.54 20 |
| Congress: | PS3553.A655 X46 1991 |
| Preceded By: | Speaker for the Dead |
| Followed By: | Children of the Mind |
Xenocide (1991) is the third book in the Ender's Game series, a science fiction series by American author Orson Scott Card.[2] Published during a period of increasing globalization and heightened awareness of cultural differences, Xenocide explores themes of communication, xenophobia, and the potential dangers of advanced technology.
Xenocide was nominated for both the Hugo Award and Locus Awards for Best Novel in 1992.
As has been common in science fiction writing since the Golden Age of Science Fiction, Card incorporated parts of an earlier published story, Gloriously Bright, from the January 1991 issue of Analog Science Fiction and Fact, into the novel.
Xenocide refers to the "killing or attempted killing of an entire alien species".[3] 'Xeno-' comes from the Greek for stranger, foreigner, or host.[4] [5] '-cide' refers to killing, from the French -cide, from the Latin -cidium, meaning "a cutting, a killing".[6] [7]
Following the events of Speaker for the Dead, the novel portrays a complex ecosystem on Lusitania inhabited by humans, the small, pig-like Pequeninos, and the Hive Queen. This fragile peace, reminiscent of the complex ecological balance found in many real-world environments, is threatened by the Descolada virus, a crucial element in the Pequeninos' life cycle but lethal to humans. The Starways Congress's decision to destroy Lusitania to prevent the virus's spread highlights the central conflict of the novel: the potential for fear and misunderstanding to lead to drastic and irreversible actions. This resonates with historical instances of environmental destruction and species extinction caused by human actions, prompting reflection on the ethical implications of prioritizing human safety over the preservation of other life forms.
The growing environmental movement of the late 20th century, with its emphasis on biodiversity and ecological interconnectedness, provides a relevant context for understanding the novel's exploration of these themes. The concept of interconnected ecosystems gained prominence during this period, influencing scientific understanding and public awareness of environmental issues.
(Remainder of plot summary omitted for brevity, as instructed)
Xenocide received recognition in the science fiction community with nominations for the Hugo Award and the Locus Award for Best Novel in 1992.[8] These nominations underscore the novel's significant impact and its valuable contribution to the genre, showcasing its nuanced exploration of complex themes and its meaningful engagement with contemporary social and political issues, resonating deeply with both readers and critics. The novel’s emphasis on communication barriers and the difficulties in understanding alien cultures aligned closely with the growing interest in cross-cultural communication and the multifaceted challenges of globalization during this era. Furthermore, the rise of the internet and expanding global connectivity heightened the relevance of these themes, emphasizing the critical importance of fostering understanding and effective communication across diverse cultures.
The New York Times Book Review offered a mixed assessment of Xenocide in 1991. While acknowledging the ambitious scope of the novel's philosophical explorations, the review also criticized its pacing and dialogue, suggesting that the complex ideas presented might have been more effective in a shorter format. This critique points to a common challenge in science fiction: balancing intricate world-building and philosophical depth with engaging narrative and character development. This tension between intricate ideas and accessible storytelling frequently emerges in critical discussions of science fiction, emphasizing the difficulty of engaging a wide audience while tackling complex and often abstract themes. The review's recognition of the novel's ambition, paired with its critiques, indicates that Xenocide generated significant debate about the role and purpose of science fiction. It prompted reflections on the genre's ability to delve into profound philosophical and social questions while still delivering compelling entertainment. This ongoing discourse mirrors the continual evolution of science fiction as a literary form, balancing its dual objectives of entertaining readers and addressing intricate societal challenges.