The Maiden Voyage of Petrus van Stijn: A Novel

Petrus van Stijns is a man living in a world besieged by two prime engines of destruction: massive geomagnetic storms and climate change. He will discover a true social and biological paradise while facing extinction. This provocative work of fiction explores the ethical limits of science and technology and the future of all life on earth.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 197 pages
Publication date: 18 May 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Petrus van Stijns finds himself caught in a world plagued by two formidable forces of destruction: massive geomagnetic storms triggered by unprecedented solar storms, known as protracted coronal mass ejections (CMEs), and the undeniable consequences of climate change, resulting in the unprecedented collapse of the Antarctic ice shelves. However, Petrus faces additional challenges, including navigating life on a floating archipelago of ice and embarking on a perilous journey of 2200 kilometers through a post-apocalyptic world. Amidst these hardships, Petrus will stumble upon a remarkable discovery—a glimpse of a true social and biological paradise. This paradoxical world presents a stark contrast, where one species, humanity, is facing extinction, while others, many of them genetically re-engineered, are experiencing a remarkable resurgence of biodiversity.

In this thought-provoking, lyrical, and profoundly philosophical work of fiction, author Petrus van Stijns delves into the ethical boundaries of science and technology and explores the future of life on Earth. With a Foreword by renowned actor William Shatner, the book offers a captivating exploration of the complexities and dilemmas that arise in a world where scientific advancements and technological progress collide with the delicate balance of nature.

As Petrus embarks on his journey, he encounters a diverse range of characters, each grappling with their own struggles and challenges in this post-apocalyptic world. From scientists seeking to harness the power of the sun for renewable energy to survivors battling for survival against the harsh environmental conditions, the book offers a rich tapestry of human experiences and emotions.

Through his interactions with these characters, Petrus begins to question the moral implications of his actions and the choices he has made. He grapples with the question of whether the pursuit of scientific progress and technological advancement is worth the cost of destroying the natural world and the lives of other species.

The book also explores the concept of genetic engineering and its potential to shape the future of humanity. Petrus encounters individuals who have been genetically re-engineered to possess extraordinary abilities, but he also witnesses the unintended consequences of such modifications. He questions the ethical boundaries of playing God and the potential risks associated with tampering with the fundamental nature of life.

As Petrus continues his journey, he discovers that there is still hope for the future of life on Earth. He stumbles upon a community of survivors who have managed to adapt to the changing environment and thrive in a world that is vastly different from the one he knew. These survivors have learned to live in harmony with nature and have developed sustainable practices that allow them to coexist with the various species that inhabit the planet.

Through his experiences, Petrus realizes that the key to survival in this post-apocalyptic world lies not in the pursuit of scientific progress or technological advancement, but in the preservation of the natural world and the respect for the lives of other species. He learns that the true paradise is not a place of abundance and luxury, but a place of balance and harmony with the environment and with all living beings.

In conclusion, Petrus van Stijns' world is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the ethical limits of science and technology, the consequences of climate change, and the future of life on Earth. Through his journey, Petrus discovers the paradoxical nature of a world where one species faces extinction while others experience a biodiversity renaissance. The book offers a profound reflection on the importance of preserving the natural world, respecting the lives of other species, and finding balance in a world that is constantly evolving. With its lyrical prose and thought-provoking themes, Petrus van Stijns' work is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the intersection of science, technology, and the human experience.

Weight: 332g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030976859
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022