I think I would have to agree with you, jmilsom, (12-15), what is the true definition of "Hard Core Sci Fi"? It seems to mean a lot of things to a lot of people. My taste run to Asimov as well, but I also like to include others in there . I think the movie, "I, Robot," was a good adaption to the robot concept series.<br />One of the best page turners I've found in the past several years is Michael Crichton, and "Sphere." He includes a time twist, action, mystery and other things in this book. It is well worth the time to read, but really AVOID that sad excuse of a movie by the same name. The cast and story had great potiential, but was so butchered up, it was almost unidentifiable. The book on the other hand kept me going until after the end, and I could see how other storylines could come out of that ending.<br />Another set of books that may not be included in "hard core" SF is labeled as kid material, Andre Norton. If a book can transport me to that world, and be involved in the story, then that is interesting to me, Beastmaster series for one. The only relationship to the movie is the animals of the beastmaster. I know it is true "fluff", but that is the purpose of most fiction, to kill time in an enjoyable way. Timeline was another good book, but I personally wished the cussing could have been toned down greatly. NOW don't start all that hate mail, that is MY opinion, not your's. Thank you for exploring my thoughts with me.