Where to start withFoundation
2 versions · originally a book, 1984
Themes: Civilization Collapse, Rebuilding Society, Psychohistory, Political Intrigue, Long-term Planning.
Start with Foundation (Isaac Asimov, 1984) — the book. Foundation exists in 2 versions across media, beginning as a book in 1984; each is ranked below by what it does best.
Foundation chronicles the desperate, calculated struggle to preserve human knowledge and civilization during the inevitable collapse of a vast Galactic Empire.
✦ Most fans start here
Foundation (1984)
The original novel
✦ Start hereFoundation
Isaac Asimov · Book · 1984
Foundation (1984) serves as the definitive source material, offering a dense, dialogue-driven exploration of sociopolitical collapse that is perfect for readers seeking the intellectual roots of modern science fiction.
2021 series
Foundation
David S. Goyer · Series · 2021
Foundation (2021) transforms the original text into a sweeping visual spectacle, capturing the grand scale of the galaxy’s decline through high-budget production design and intense, character-focused dramatic stakes.
Common questions
What order should I read the Foundation book series?
The Foundation book, published in 1951, is the first entry in the main trilogy. While later prequels exist, most readers begin with the original 1951 Foundation book to experience the narrative as Isaac Asimov originally structured it for the publication of his series.
Is the Foundation TV show based on the book?
The 2021 Foundation TV series is an adaptation of the original Foundation book series. While the show draws its title and core premise from the books, it incorporates significant narrative changes and modern updates to the story that deviate from the source material.
How long is the Foundation book?
The original Foundation book is a relatively concise science fiction novel. It consists of five interconnected short stories that span the initial collapse of the Galactic Empire. It serves as the foundation for the broader series and provides the primary introduction to the concept of psychohistory.
Should I watch the Foundation TV show if I have read the book?
You can watch the 2021 Foundation TV show after reading the book to compare the two versions of the story. The show adapts the world and central conflict of the Foundation book but presents them with a different visual style and pacing than the original text.