Key Out of Time by Andre Norton

Name: Key Out of Time
Author: Andre Norton

The story begins with a description of the island of Hawaika, which is part of a galactic civilization thousands of years old. The island has undergone significant changes over time, and the settlers are trying to uncover its past. They have been searching for clues but so far, they have found nothing. Ross, one of the main characters, is frustrated with the lack of progress and suggests organizing an underwater hunt to search for any signs of ancient ruins or artifacts. Karara, a Polynesian settler, agrees with Ross's idea and suggests that they use video cameras to scan the area inch by inch. Ashe, another main character, is hesitant at first but eventually warms up to the idea. He explains that the island has undergone significant changes over time, possibly due to an atomic war or some other catastrophic event. The aliens who once inhabited the island had advanced technology and may have been able to tamper with the weather or the planet's crust. Ross and Ashe discuss the risks of uncovering ancient knowledge, which could potentially be used for destructive purposes. They also mention that they are in a race against time, as the Reds (a rival group) may also be searching for answers in the past. The story ends with Ross and Ashe deciding to go ahead with the underwater hunt, using video cameras and other equipment to scan the area inch by inch. Karara suggests that they set up camp on an island that looks like a beckoning finger, which she believes will bring them good luck. Overall, the story is a science fiction tale of exploration and discovery, with a focus on uncovering the secrets of a mysterious island in a distant past.

By Andre Norton · First published 1964 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy · 18 chapters · 66,753 words

First lines

There was a shading of rose in the pearl arch of sky, deepening at the horizon meeting of sea and air in a rainbow tint of cloud. The lazy swells of the ocean held the same soft color, darkened with crimson veins where spirals of weed drifted. A rose world bathed in soft sunlight, knowing only gentle winds, peace, and -- sloth.

What this Textopian page supports

Key Out of Time is listed on Textopian as a novel by Andre Norton, dated 1964 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Andre Norton
Date: 1964 CE
Language: English
Genres: Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy, Time Travel
Length: 66,753 words
Structure: 18 chapters, 1,370 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Science Fiction — The novel is based on science and technology that doesn't exist, which characterizes it as a science fiction. It focuses on time travel and alien worlds.
Adventure — The book is filled with adventures and explorations of the protagonist in an alien world, which characterizes it as an adventure genre.
Fantasy — Although primarily a science fiction novel, 'Key Out of Time' also incorporates elements of magic and other fantastical elements, making it relevant to the fantasy genre as well.
Time Travel — The story encompasses the aspect of time manipulation and traveling through different time periods.