Hard SF discussion

This is the first book of a trilogy. So, it's not surprising that there's a substantial amount of background material in it. But I was left with the feeling the entire book was essentially background material - on two levels. The chapters alternate between events in 2048 in the solar system and about 500 years later in another star system. After quite a while, we learn how the 2048 events are background for the later events. The later events give us an interesting setting and potential for an interesting series. I suppose Cosmonaut Keep could be read by itself, but it's basically getting us to the point where we can begin the real adventure. I haven't read the other books, so I can't say how well the series meets the potential. I'd be willing to try the next book.

I was curious whether any of you were having difficulties with some of the political references / history in the book. Presumably, not everyone in the group has had an interest in learning about the Wobblies, anarcho-syndicalism, Soviet history, Trotsyism, etc.

David, why have you started a second thread on the same book?