Foundation Series in Order by Isaac Asimov

All 7 Foundation books listed in order of date published, and chronological order.

First Book

Foundation

Isaac Asimov

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Foundation

Author: Isaac Asimov

Genre: Science Fiction & Fantasy

Number of Books: 7

What is the Foundation book series about?

The "Foundation" series by Isaac Asimov is an epic science fiction saga that follows the efforts of Hari Seldon, a mathematician who develops psychohistory, a method to predict and alter the future of humanity. Seldon establishes the Foundation, a group of scientists and engineers tasked with preserving knowledge and guiding civilization through an impending dark age, facing political intrigue, crises, and the rise of unexpected threats along the way.

Foundation Book #1

Prequel

Foundation

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Plot Summary

Hari Seldon, a visionary mathematician, establishes the Foundation, a group of scientists and engineers tasked with preserving knowledge and creating a new civilization to shorten the impending dark age. As political and social crises arise, the Foundation must navigate threats and challenges to ensure humanity's future.

Aug 30, 1951

Foundation Book #2

Prequel

Foundation and Empire

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Plot Summary

The Foundation faces new challenges from the decaying Galactic Empire and the emergence of a powerful mutant called the Mule. As the Mule threatens to disrupt Seldon's plans, the Foundation's leaders must find a way to preserve their vision of a future civilization.

Jan 1, 1952

Foundation Book #3

Prequel

Second Foundation

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Plot Summary

In the wake of the Mule's conquest, the hidden Second Foundation, tasked with guiding the original Foundation's development, becomes a target. The story follows the efforts to locate and either destroy or protect the elusive Second Foundation as it works to keep Seldon's grand plan on track.

Jan 1, 1953

Foundation Book #4

Prequel

Foundation's Edge

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Plot Summary

Centuries after the founding of the original Foundation, a political crisis and rumors of the Second Foundation's influence lead to a quest to uncover its secrets. The search brings to light hidden truths that challenge the established understanding of Seldon's plan.

Oct 1, 1982

Foundation Book #5

Prequel

Foundation and Earth

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Plot Summary

Continuing the quest from "Foundation's Edge," characters search for the mythical planet Earth to uncover its significance in Seldon's plan. Their journey reveals deep mysteries about the origins and future of humanity.

Oct 1, 1986

Foundation Book #6

Prequel

Prelude to Foundation

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Plot Summary

This prequel explores the early life of Hari Seldon and his development of psychohistory, the mathematical science that predicts the future. As Seldon evades political intrigue and danger, he lays the groundwork for the Foundation's creation.

May 1, 1988

Foundation Book #7

Prequel

Forward the Foundation

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Plot Summary

This prequel chronicles the later years of Hari Seldon's life as he works to establish the Foundation amidst growing political turmoil. The story highlights Seldon's personal sacrifices and the obstacles he faces in ensuring the success of his vision.

Apr 1, 1993