First published in 1976, The Grain Kings is a science fiction novel by Keith Roberts, known for his rich world-building and thought-provoking narratives. The book explores a future where agriculture has become a highly sophisticated science, controlled by powerful elites who operate vast, automated grain-producing machines across the world's breadbaskets. These "Grain Kings" hold immense power, not only over food production but also over global politics and economics.
Roberts weaves a compelling tale of ambition, control, and the intersection of technology and human will. The novel examines themes of ecological balance, corporate dominance, and the struggle of individuals against monolithic systems. With its mix of hard science fiction and social commentary, The Grain Kings remains an engaging and prescient exploration of mankind's dependence on technology for survival.