Dorsai by Gordon R. Dickson - SF - SFBookcase.com - Reference of Science Fiction and Fantasy Novels/Authors.

Series: Dorsai/Chylde Cycle
Genre: SF
ISBN: 0812503988
Pages: 288 pages
Publisher: TOR
Reader Rating: 8 out of 10
Votes: 1

Dorsai by Gordon R. Dickson

Description: "Dorsai!", by Gordon R. Dickson, is a science fiction novel set in a future wherein humanity has spread out to inhabit many different planets in several star systems. The different branches of humanity have evolved into a diverse group of different cultures. One of these branches of humanity is the Dorsai, a formidable warrior race. This novel follows the life and career of Donal Graeme, one of the Dorsai.
The 1993 TOR edition includes an introduction by David Drake, who notes that "Dorsai!" and Robert Heinlein's "Starship Troopers" were both first published in 1959, and together form "the standard against which the subgenre of military SF must be judged." "Dorsai!" is certainly an enjoyable and well-written space adventure. Dickson effectively structures the story; we follow Donal as he rises up the military ranks from Senior Cadet to higher levels of responsibility. Dickson fills the book with fascinating details about Donal's world. It's particularly intriguing to get glimpses of the divergent human cultures and of the conflicts that exist among them.
Along the way the book addresses many significant themes, such as military tactics, the role of religion in a military organization, and leadership. At its best, "Dorsai!" goes beyond being just a solid adventure novel and can be genuinely moving and thought-provoking. Recommended companion text: Joe Haldeman's "The Forever War," another gem of military science fiction.