Classic Arthur C Clarke novel
Arthur C Clarke wrote multi stranded science fiction -his novels usually have many layers of plot, social commentary, scientific exposition and futuristic prediiction. ''Imperial Earth' is a fine example. Clarke weaves a story from the major plot lines of a colonial dynasty on Titan looking to ensure its succession via cloning, and the political relationships it has to maintain back on Earth. Against the backdrop of what human society might be like in 2276 as the 500th anniversary of US independence is celebrated, the story also has a mystery novel element. Written in 1976, it brilliantly predicts what daily life would be like with universal, portable access to information and communications - though I suspect Clarke would have been surprised at how much sooner that has come to pass.