Neanderthal Parallax

Neanderthal Parallax, by Robert J. Sawyer

Canadian science fiction writer Robert J. Sawyer's Neanderthal Parallax trilogy has been much discussed recently by the library's SF Book Club members. Concentrating on an accidental "first contact" between our Earth and a parallel one where Neanderthals outlived humans and became more scientifically advanced and peaceful than us (little crime; no pollution or wars; social promotion of bisexuality). Of course cross-contamination of both worlds occurs, resulting in great drama and social commentary. While Sawyer sometimes seems a bit too laid back (and his depiction of his native country's government and people -they're so noble!- seems like it was written by the Canadian Tourist Board) and the various dramatic conflicts neatened up a bit too quickly, this is still thought-provoking reading. Check out (in order of sequence) Hominids, Humans and Hybrids.
-Ed