Giants

Scientists in the near future make an astonishing discovery on the Moon - a human body in a spacesuit, dead for 50,000 years. This finding launches a massive scientific investigation to solve what seems an impossible paradox, given human civilization on Earth only dates back a few thousand years. The story centers on the research teams working to unravel this mystery through analysis of the ancient remains and other artifacts found in the solar system. Their work points to evidence of an advanced human civilization that existed in space long before recorded history, though no traces remain on Earth. Teams of researchers must piece together clues about this ancient civilization while grappling with challenges to conventional theories about human origins and evolution. The investigation spans Earth, the Moon, and other locations in the solar system. The novel explores themes of scientific discovery and how new evidence can completely upend established beliefs about human history and origins. It presents a methodical, science-based approach to investigating seemingly inexplicable phenomena.

Reader reviews highlight Giants as an original take on first contact, focusing on scientific investigation rather than conflict. The slower pacing and technical detail appeals to hard science fiction fans looking for plausible explanations over action. Readers praised: - The methodical scientific approach to uncovering mysteries - Detailed but accessible technical explanations - Fresh perspective on alien contact scenarios - Characters who solve problems through intellect and cooperation Common criticisms: - Slow start with dense exposition - Limited character development - Dated scientific concepts (published 1977) - Technical passages can overwhelm the story Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (6,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (450+ ratings) "Like reading a scientific paper in novel form" notes one Amazon reviewer. A Goodreads review states: "The science and discovery aspects make up for the basic characterization." The book maintains high ratings despite its age, with readers valuing the scientific authenticity over storytelling elements.

Rendezvous with Rama by Arthur C. Clarke The story of humans investigating a massive alien vessel contains parallel themes of scientific discovery and first contact mysteries.

The Forge of God by Greg Bear Earth faces possible destruction from alien artifacts while scientists work to understand their true purpose and origin.

The Mote in God's Eye by Larry Niven Human explorers encounter an ancient alien civilization with hidden secrets that challenge their understanding of the universe.

Pushing Ice by Alastair Reynolds A mining crew discovers an artificial object masquerading as a moon, leading to revelations about humanity's place in the cosmos.

Blindsight by Peter Watts A crew of modified humans encounters an alien artifact that forces them to question the nature of consciousness and intelligence.

🔍 The book was initially rejected by 42 publishers before finally being accepted, showcasing Hogan's remarkable persistence in bringing this story to readers. 🌙 Hogan wrote "Giants" while working as a digital systems designer, incorporating his real-world technical expertise into the novel's scientific elements. 🧬 The novel's premise about ancient human remains on the Moon predated the popular "ancient astronaut" theories that would later become mainstream through works like "Chariots of the Gods." 🚀 The story's success led to four sequels, forming the "Giants series," with the final book published in 2005, spanning nearly 30 years of storytelling. 🎬 Despite being inspired by "2001: A Space Odyssey," Hogan deliberately took an opposite approach to the mysterious aspects of space exploration, focusing on scientific explanation rather than mystical elements.