SOLVED. Philosophical Sci Fi, man is abducted to another planet, blue giant at one point [s]

[C]

I read this book around 2013, but my guess is it was published 1950-1990. I remember liking it because it was odd; it sort of reminded me of a Kurt Vonnegut, or Ray Bradbury book. But I was so tired when I read it that I didn't get much out of it, and I really want to read it again.

It was about a man on earth in the 20th century who is picked up by a spaceship (possibly involuntarily) to fulfill some sort of purpose on the alien's home planet. The trip in space took weeks and for most of it he was sick or weak. I also remember a big, bright window or light on the ship.

When they get to the planet it is colorful and varied. Like, some places were harsh and austere, while others were full of life like a paradise. Most of the book was about him walking around the planet talking to different creatures about ideas and learning about their culture. I remember one part where he rides on this blue giant's hand over a mountainous area and lives with a bunch of other blue giants for a few days.

He ends up going back to earth and telling people about what he saw. Which I think was the purpose; I think something bad was about to happen to the planet and they brought him there to remember.

It wasn't a very technical book. There wasn't any question, really, of language or many details about the spaceship. I don't think anybody else noticed the spaceship when it landed either.

Any leads welcome! Thank you!

[Kris]

Satan's World (1968) by Poul Anderson?

[Mir]

Some of that sounds like Out of the Silent Planet.

[C]

It is Out of the Silent Planet. Looking back at the book, I can't believe you got that out of my description. But thank you! I've been looking for this book for months, it is really appreciated.

[Mir]

You're welcome! Now I'm reminded that I meant to read the other two books in the series.