A Heritage of Stars

More than a thousand years in the future, humanity has deliberately abandoned technology and returned to a primitive tribal existence. In this society, old robot casings serve as trophies, and surviving knowledge is preserved in monastery-like universities accessible only to a select few. Young Tom Cushing learns of a legendary location called the "Place of Going to the Stars," said to exist on a high butte in the western part of the land. Driven by curiosity, he embarks on a journey across what was once America, accompanied by a witch, the world's last remaining robot, and other unusual companions. Along the way they face discoveries and dangers, but greater revelations await them at their destination. Simak presents a vision of the future that combines dystopian and hopeful elements, exploring themes of lost knowledge and humanity's relationship with technology.