Sirius

By: Olaf Stapledon

Narrated by: Nigel Carrington

Sirius is Thomas Trelone's great experiment - a huge, handsome dog with the brain and intelligence of a human being. Raised and educated in Trelone's own family alongside Plaxy, his youngest daughter, Sirius is a truly remarkable and gifted creature. His relationship with the Trelones, particularly with Plaxy, is deep and close, and his inquiring mind ranges across the spectrum of human knowledge and experience. But Sirius isn't human and the conflicts and inner turmoil that torture him cannot be resolved.

©1944 Olaf Stapledon (P)2012 Audible Ltd

Favorite book by author

Out of all his famous books, this touches on his themes in the most relatable, concrete way.

Words at the surface,

While there is what could be said, words at the surface, that wouldn't be able to justify or perhaps a note on a state of 'a' nature and just how it'll never really mean the same to everyone despite the same viewpoint being expressed.

I would genuinely think that it would be wise to understand ones reaction to the story as the point, and of ones self ..... that is if one cares to know.

Canine copy of Frankenstein

I normally enjoy Olaf Stapleton's books, but this is a Canine version of the Frankenstein book, cleverly crafted for "modern" (WW2) timez.

Advanced canine intelligence

Olaf Stapeldon’s Sirius is a mid-20th century sci-fi with a theme that in the late 20th century would be referred to as ‘uplift.’ A scientist experiments with increasing the intelligence of dogs with the hope of breeding super sheep herders. One particular dog exceeds expectations and achieves near human intelligence, although speech is difficult and the lack of ‘hands’ is a serious impediment. The tale relates Sirius’ adventures and his unique involvement with a woman that he was raised with.

Stapeldon displays a keen assessment of the physical limitations that would accompany a human equivalent intelligence among canines, particularly focusing on communications as well as limited dexterity due to lack of ‘hands’ or more precisely, fingers for manipulation. While there are scientific interests and a sheepherder would appreciates the expanded capabilities, there is much societal and religious objections that must be endured.

The narration is quite good with decent character distinction. Pacing is brisk.

Thought provoking

It was an incredible journey of love and isolation that is as relevant today as it was when it was written.