In the year 2131, a fast-moving object is detected entering the solar system. Asteroid 31/439, renamed 'Rama', is set to enter the Earth's orbit within the year. A hastily arranged space flight is organised to intercept it. The scientists on board soon discover that Rama is not a dead lump of rock but a huge hollow cylinder spinning along a planned trajectory. Who or what built Rama and why?

«A simplified version of a novel by Arthur C. Clarke. In the year 2131, a fast-moving object is detected heading for Earth. Not a dead lump of rock but a huge hollow cylinder spinning along a planned trajectory. Who or what built «Rama» and why? This is an intermediate-level story in a series of ELT readers comprising a wide range of titles — some original and some simplified — from modern and classic novels, and designed to appeal to all age groups, tastes and cultures. The books are divided into five levels: Starter Level, with about 300 basic words; Beginner Level (600 basic words); Elementary Level (1100); Intermediate Level (1600); and Upper Level (2200). Some of the titles are also available on cassette.»