Slovenian critic Igor Harb launches sci-fi novel trilogy

Igor Harb, a familiar name to readers as Vikend's long-time film critic and a prominent popularizer of science fiction in Slovenia, has ventured into fiction with his debut novel, "Ko Zemlja zdrsne za obzorje." Harb has previously translated numerous influential sci-fi works, including Frank Herbert's "Dune" and Isaac Asimov's "Foundation" series.

His first novel promises a dynamic and romantic narrative set decades in the future. The story centers on archaeologist Frank Beddoe, who is analyzing excavations in Egypt, and detective Julija Perun. Perun arrives to escort Beddoe to preparations for a mysterious journey into space. The future depicted sees humanity much closer to space, with Mars accessible and Planica, a renowned Nordic skiing venue, transformed into a space center for astronaut training.

The protagonists find themselves in the Slovenian Alps, with their training grounds encompassing the Tamar valley and the area around the Soča River's source. The novel explores the purpose behind this rigorous training and the significance of their expertise. The plot, which includes an "originally ticklish scene in space," begins to unravel its mysteries towards the end.

In line with classic science fiction storytelling, "Ko Zemlja zdrsne za obzorje" is conceived as the first installment of a planned trilogy titled "Na robu obzorja" (On the Edge of the Horizon). The book is published by Založba Goga.