Review of The New Mind Travelers

Post by **Steinkar** » 30 Dec 2024, 20:40

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The New Mind Travelers" by Phill Boas.]

4 out of 5 stars

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Phill Boas presents The New Mind Travelers as a science fiction novel that uses science and technology to examine human relationships. On September 25, 2096, Sunstreamer departed Moon Base One to undertake the exploration of a newly discovered planet. Its mission was to determine whether or not the planet was suitable for human habitation because destructive environmental, economic, and political issues were quickly making Earth unlivable. What the crew discovers on Olar is a population of peaceful, gentle beings with both telepathic and telekinetic powers. The ability to read each other's minds created a society of beings who are necessarily without the deceit, corruption, ignorance and violence that is so prevalent in human culture. The bulk of this novel, Part I in the series, centers on comparisons and contrasts between humans and Olarians, with the characters of Zed, the protagonist; and Olaria, the leader of Olar; exploring each other’s cultures and eventually forming a deep, personal relationship. This leaves them wondering what kind of future they (and Earth and Olar) might have together.

I am not a very enthusiastic science fiction fan, but I love this book! Boas is masterful in using utopian Olarian culture as a way to highlight the difficulties of ours, but he also includes a conflict on Olar that shows it’s not perfect. I assume that this storyline will be further developed in the next book of the series. I specifically like his explanation of the critical thinking skills cultivated in the Olarian education system: “They [students] are encouraged to learn to dissent and so to challenge everything.” Also impressive is the explanation of love relationships and sexuality in the book. Because all Olarians can read each other’s thoughts, there is no shame or secrecy among them about anything: “the pleasures and skills of sex and intimacy are taught to all and practiced by all.” While I realize some readers may feel uneasy about this open attitude, I genuinely appreciate that Boas didn’t just throw in a formulaic romance between the two main characters.

The only negative is a lack of good editing. Most are punctuation errors, but some are quite obvious. This was a frustration for me throughout the novel.

I enthusiastically rate this book 4 out of 5 stars! I removed one star for poor editing. It has enough technological aspects to keep science fiction fans engaged, and it has very human themes running through it. I’m excited to read the next book in the series.

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The New Mind Travelers
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NetMassimo · Post by **NetMassimo** » 21 Jun 2025, 10:22

The basic concept is intriguing. Through the comparison between humans and Olarians, we're offered a possible society without some of the flaws that, more or less, plague human societies. I see that this is Book 1, so I'm curious to see how the story continues. Thank you for your great review!

Post by **Rebecca De Figueiredo** » 21 Jun 2025, 10:42

This seems to be an inviting read.. the introduction holds promise. Sci-fi isn’t my favourite genre but these days of high end tech and AI , it’s beginning to feel more and more believable. Wonder what book 2 will hold. I think it will be popular with young adults.

Post by **Ukaegbu Confidence** » 21 Jun 2025, 10:56

The New Mind Travelers" by Phill Boas is a time travel gem, written from the futuristic view of the year 2096. If you enjoy time travel, this is a field trip for you. Congratulations on BOTD.

Post by **Idah_Kenei** » 21 Jun 2025, 11:14

Futuristic utopian books are intriguing because it speaks much on the author's imagination. It's wonderful reading people perception on how the future can be.

Aurora Rose Reynolds · Post by **greeneyedgirl27** » 21 Jun 2025, 11:21

"The New Mind Travelers" by Phil Boas follows the adventure of psychologist Dr, Zed Eko's space travel in 2096. The world is in chaos and the mission is to travel to the new plant to see if it is human compatible, and where they meet the telepathic Olarians. Their leader Olaria and the Dr. form a close relationship. which is a good test if the problems of both planets can be solved together. This Sci-Fi Fantasy is a great BOTD.

Post by **Amarachi Stephanie Ejike** » 21 Jun 2025, 11:24

The use of science and technology to examine human relationships sounds intriguing. Phill Boas's science fiction novel, "The New Mind Travelers" centers on the comparisons and contrasts between the humans of Earth and the Beings of the newly discovered planet, Olar. The story has its merits, however the idea of reading one another's minds seems a bit preposterous considering the clamour for boundaries in our present society.

Post by **Sushan Ekanayake** » 21 Jun 2025, 11:47

"The New Mind Travelers" by Phill Boas takes you to 2096, where Earth’s survival hinges on a distant planet—Olar. Telepathic beings, no lies, no hate. Can humanity learn from them? A bold sci-fi blend of tech, philosophy & raw human connection. Congratulations on being BOTD!

Macel A · Post by **Macel A** » 21 Jun 2025, 11:55

Id like to read about the new planet and their people and their distinction from the earth people. Great review

Post by **Sanju Lali** » 21 Jun 2025, 12:00

One can find the usage of science and technology to examine human relationships in the science fiction book "The New Mind Travelers" by Phill Boas. The book uses utopian Olarian culture as a way to highlight the difficulties of ours.

tarafarah7 · Post by **tarafarah7** » 21 Jun 2025, 12:12

Today's BOTD is a SciFi novel that follows Dr. Zed Eko as he joins a space mission to a telepathic alien world, where his abilities and bond with an alien leader challenge humanity’s reliance on deception and control. It's not the one for me, but it sounds like readers of the genre are going to love this one! Thanks so much and great work!

rusyalana · Post by **rusyalana** » 21 Jun 2025, 12:33

The book sounds interesting. The concept of mind reading to iliminate secrecy and shame is intriguing. And I also like that the author does not just describe that utopian society but compares it with Earth to examine the flaws and the potential of humanity. Congratulations on becoming BOTD!

Post by **Rupali Mishra** » 21 Jun 2025, 12:46

Congrats on BOTD!
Phill Boas' "The New Mind Travelers" transports readers to 2096, when Oliar, a far-off environment, is crucial to Earth's safety. Telepaths, without deceit or hatred. A daring science-fiction fusion of theology, technology, and unadulterated human nature.

Post by **Mr Benj** » 21 Jun 2025, 13:06

The New Mind Travelers" by Phill Boas., a book that features science, technology, and human relationships. It will be interesting to read about how the human relationships developed this story.

Post by **Judy Burr** » 21 Jun 2025, 13:13

Thank you for your review. I read the sample. Earthlings travel to outer space to find a place that could be a new Earth. They find a friendly planet with similar people. This is fascinating sci-fi that would make a great movie.