Stated first edition, dated, with no additional printings noted. Tight, clean, flat book with cupped and creased spine, shelf slant, toned pages, edge wear and small chips. The Federation of Galactic Sentients had a mission. As new planets and species were discovered and assessed, the deserving of their populations were invited to move en masse to the fabulous Federation World, a modified Dyson Sphere located in the galactic core. But not all of the Federation inductees were suited to the idyllic life of the World. Martin and Beth were two of the rare ones chosen instead for the demanding job of First Contact. Their training was extensive, but all too soon the two Earth-humans were out on their own with all the amazing technology of the Federation at their command. Martin knew that training was no substitute for experience. In First Contact, his first mistake would likely be his last.