Brightness Reef by David Brin

Book One in the Uplift Storm Trilogy

Centuries ago, the Buyur race abandoned Jijo. Now off-limits to settlers, it's warded by guardian machines who will protect the planet until the Institutes of the Five Galaxies declare Jijo ready--in another million years--for new civilization.

But mere laws and guardians can't keep out the desperate. Clandestine bands of "sooners" have sneaked down to the lonely planet. Six intelligent races--all refugees--have bickered . . . then built a new society in the wilds of Jijo, hidden beneath forest canopies. Together they live in harmony--and in fear of the day their illegal colony will be discovered and judgment from the Five Galaxies will rain down upon them.

One day a strange starship finally does appear on Jijo. But its owners do not bring law or judgment. Only dire secrets. And they'll do whatever it takes to keep them . . .

This book features a new introduction by the author.

Hugo Award Finalist

"Brin is a skillful storyteller. . . . There is more than enough action to keep the book exciting, and like all good serials, the first volume ends with a bang." - The Plain Dealer

"A universe that's immensely appealing, leaving readers hungry for more of this exciting, epic adventure." - Publishers Weekly

"Tremendously inventive, ambitious work." - Kirkus Reviews

"A timely, science fictional contemplation of the refugee experience." - Santa Fe Reporter