kids encyclopedia robot

The Ships of Earth facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
The Ships of Earth
Author Orson Scott Card
Country United States
Language English
Series Homecoming Saga
Genre Science fiction
Publisher Tor Books
Publication date
1994
Media type Print (Hardcover & Paperback)
Pages 382
ISBN 0-312-85659-8
OCLC 29359905
813/.54 20
LC Class PS3553.A655 S54 1994
Preceded by The Call of Earth 
Followed by Earthfall 

The Ships of Earth is a science fiction book written by Orson Scott Card. It was published in 1994. This book is the third part of a five-book series called the Homecoming Saga. The series tells a big story about humans trying to find their way back to their original home planet, Earth.

About the Story

The Ships of Earth continues the exciting journey of a special family. This family is led by a wise computer called the Oversoul. The Oversoul guides them on a long trip across space. Their goal is to return to Earth, which is a planet they left many thousands of years ago.

What Happens in This Book?

In this part of the story, the family faces many challenges. They are traveling in a large spaceship, but not everyone agrees on what to do. Some family members want to follow the Oversoul's plan. Others have their own ideas and want to take control. This causes a lot of tension and arguments among them.

The main character, Nafai, tries to keep everyone together. He has a special connection to the Oversoul. He must use his skills to help his family survive. They face dangers from inside their group and from the unknown parts of space. The book explores themes of leadership, faith, and family loyalty.

Who Are the Main Characters?

  • Nafai: He is one of the central figures. Nafai often hears messages from the Oversoul. He tries to lead his family through difficult times.
  • Luafa: Nafai's brother, who often disagrees with him. Luafa wants to find his own path.
  • The Oversoul: This is a powerful computer intelligence. It guides the human colony and holds all their history. It is like a wise parent for the entire group.
  • General Malo: A military leader who also has strong opinions. He sometimes challenges the Oversoul's authority.

Part of a Bigger Series

The Ships of Earth is the third book in the Homecoming Saga. The series is inspired by the Book of Mormon. It tells a futuristic version of a long journey. The first book is The Memory of Earth. The second is The Call of Earth. After The Ships of Earth, the story continues in Earthfall and ends with Ulysses Unbound. Each book adds more to the family's quest to reach Earth.

Who Wrote This Book?

The author is Orson Scott Card. He is a very famous American writer. He is best known for his science fiction books. His most famous work is Ender's Game. Card has won many awards for his writing. He is known for creating deep characters and complex stories.

See also

In Spanish: Las naves de la Tierra para niños

kids search engine
The Ships of Earth Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.