The Cloud is original in concept. Beyond that however, The Cloud is a 1950's type sci-fi novel about mankind's xenophobia, barbaric approach to dominance and ultimately a reflection of what may be our place in the universe. The plot simply revolves around potential alien contact and the appearance of a giant space cloud which is heading for Earth (and will strip the Earth of it's atmosphere, and possibly all of it's life). Hammond has no fear about where his book may take the reader. It's very cleverly woven, with enough characters to ensure reality, and enough diversity in suspense and action to keep the reader glued. Chapters are interspersed with tabloid headlines to keep the b-movie genre in place, but in reality this book is too smart to be a b-movie. Crichton-esque in it's approach at times, The Cloud is a fast paced techno-thriller which is refreshing original. Definitely worth a read, although the end lacks somewhat in it's punch. ( )