In “Factoring Humanity” by Robert J. Sawyer, Heather Davis, an astrophysicist, deciphers a message received from another world and realizes the urgency of mathematical understanding in order to save the world. The narrative navigates through complex family relationships, intriguing scientific concepts, and the emotional impacts of understanding an alien civilization. When Heather’s husband, a psychology professor named Lloyd, encounters an unusual syndrome affecting a group of college students, their lives intertwine with the mysteries of the universe. The story unfolds with depth and emotion, exploring the intersections of humanity, science, and the cosmos.
Authors:
Robert J. Sawyer
Subgenres:
Hard Science Fiction,Alternate History
Years:
1999
Location:
future-earth,-otherworld,-space
Genre:
Science Fiction
AwardInfo:
hugo-1999