Pebble in the Sky
by Isaac Asimov
Pebble in the Sky (1950), Asimov's first published novel, features a 20th-century man transported to a far future where Earth is a radioactive, backwater world within the Galactic Empire — discriminated against and planning rebellion.
Published
1950
Pages
223
Pub. Order
#15
Chron. Order
#8
Synopsis
Joseph Schwartz, a retired tailor from 1949 Chicago, is accidentally transported thousands of years into the future by a nuclear accident. He finds himself on Earth — now a radioactive, impoverished backwater of the Galactic Empire. Earth's people face discrimination from the galaxy and are subject to the 'Sixty' — mandatory euthanasia at age 60.
Schwartz is subjected to a brain-enhancement procedure that gives him telepathic abilities. He becomes involved in a plot by fanatical Earthmen to release a biological weapon against the Empire. With the help of archaeologist Bel Arvardan and physicist Affret Shekt, Schwartz helps prevent the attack while advocating for Earth's humane treatment.
Key Themes
Historical Context & Writing Background
This was Asimov's first published novel (1950), though he had already published the Foundation short stories in magazines. The radioactive Earth established here was later explained in 'Robots and Empire' (1985) as the result of deliberate contamination by Spacer extremists — a retcon that unified the Robot and Empire series.
Critical Reception
Well received as a debut novel. The themes of prejudice and identity resonate strongly. The novel holds up as a standalone adventure while gaining additional significance when read in the context of the larger universe.
Connection to Asimov's Universe
Earth's radioactive state, described here as ancient history, is explained in 'Robots and Empire' as having been deliberately caused. The anti-Earth prejudice seen here echoes throughout the Foundation series. Bel Arvardan's archaeology connects to themes in 'Foundation and Earth.'
Read more on WikipediaFrequently Asked Questions About Pebble in the Sky
Is Pebble in the Sky Asimov's first novel?
Yes. Pebble in the Sky (1950) was Isaac Asimov's first published novel, though he had already sold numerous short stories to magazines, including the core Foundation stories. The novel was expanded from a shorter work at the insistence of editor Frederik Pohl.