A short novel packed with ideas and concepts on utopian society, art, intelligence, life purpose, religion, and power. It carried enough details to be a fascinating and satisfying read with lots of space for mystery and speculations for really interesting discussions. One thing I wish was explored a little better though, was why humanity so quickly lost its will to reproduce after the transformation of the children.

I enjoyed reading Jan's section of excitement, cluelessness, and naivety while exploring the Overlord's planet especially since I already knew what he was about to face back on earth. It was kind of grim but maybe somewhat comedic to me.

Generally, it is very plot-driven spanning around 100 years. The characters were mostly just mouthpieces to the great concepts in the story. You will definitely read it for the ideas more than connection with the individual characters. It was also incredible how Clarke was able to tie together little details and pieces of information encountered throughout the novel. Everyone who said that this is a must-read for Sci-fi fans was correct.