Record of a Spaceborn Few is something of an anthropological study of the humans of the Exodus fleet. The humans who have lived in these generational ships have beautiful, egalitarian cultures and traditions which the book views from the inside and from the outside (alien and non-fleet human eyes) during a series of events which challenge their perceptions of themselves. 

It parallels somewhat a small self-contained rural community which has long past the reason for its founding. Continuing on regardless to preserve their way of life. Children are seduced by the excitement of planet-side civilizations while others return seeking a quieter life, albeit clueless about their customs. It’s a beautiful exploration of community.