First-time readers of the Riverworld series face a challenging task. Not only does the cast of characters include almost every person who ever lived, the narrative structure becomes more and more rambling as the series proceeds, until it almost completely disintegrates in the final novel. Perhaps the most useful way of approaching an analysis of the series is to begin by considering the two main male characters, Richard Burton and Sam Clemens, and comparing the values and attitudes they seem to represent. Then discussions should deal with the series' religious and ethical themes, which become increasingly central during the unfolding of the series. Finally, another major topic for discussion could be the series' ambivalent attitude towards reason, science, and technology. On the one hand, the characters' ability to master technology results in the appalling destruction of the Riverworld war; on the other, Burton's technical skills and...