Book Review: The Dolphins of Altair

Mamma Bear Book Review

*A bear trundles in with a book under one, fuzzy arm*

 

 

 A vintage, pulp style science fiction read, The Dolphins of Altair, is set in the nuclear age when human experimentation with animals is at its height. The military is neck deep in attempting to train and weaponize dolphins, and the dolphins have had enough of that. 

The story follows the few special humans who can hear the cries for assistance of dolphins who are not only descended from alien beings, but also distant cousins to humanity. The small band of dolphins and their human allies plot to stop the mistreatment of their kin, free the captive dolphins, and secure a peaceful future. 

Unfortunately the plans get out of control, and before they know it, humans and dolphins are in a war that could devastate the entire planet. I thoroughly enjoyed the book, and though I didn't find the ending completely satisfying, it was tidy and followed well from what came before.

 

The Dolphins of Altair is a fun, pulpy, fast-paced read filled with both dolphin and human characters. It's a short, easy read that like most pulp is more action than depth, but will definitely please the furry scifi fan. I consider it a hidden gem and read the whole thing in one sitting. 

 

Dolphins and humanity at war gets a big four claws up. 

 

 

 

 

Character: 

The characters were individual and diverse. Not necessarily fully fleshed out in a quick, pulp read, but definitely sympathetic and engaging and I give Dolphins full props for the power player being a woman in a time when pulp was dominated by white male protagonists. 

World Building:

The setting is on Earth, but the background and history laid out between the human, dolphin, and alien was a treat and the sort of unique fantastical fodder that gets pulp readers really excited. 

Pacing:  

The story moved well and with a great sense of tension. True to its kind, Dolphins was an action-packed page turner. 

 Shiny:

Dolphins from space making a few special human allies to take on the rest of the world and end cruelty. Dang. What's not to love about that?