John Laumer was an American science fiction author whose works often explored themes of the lone protagonist, sacrifice, and transcendence, or delved into satirical comedy. His popular Retief and Bolo series, the latter chronicling the evolution of self-aware war machines, reflect a cynical take on bureaucracy, drawing from his prior career in diplomatic service. Despite health challenges that temporarily halted his writing, Laumer returned to creation, though his later works sometimes revisited earlier motifs. His influence on the genre endures, with other authors continuing to develop his Bolo universe.
The Star-Sent Knaves is a classical work that holds significant historical importance. To ensure its legacy, Alpha Editions has republished it in a modern format, enhancing readability through reformatting and retyping. This edition is not a mere scanned copy, offering a clear and accessible text for both present and future readers.
The November 1961 issue of WORLDS OF IF SCIENCE FICTION features a collection of captivating science fiction stories. Highlights include "MASTERS OF SPACE" by Edward E. Smith & E. E. Evans, and Arthur C. Clarke's "AT THE END OF THE ORBIT." Other notable contributions are "GAMBLER'S WORLD" by Keith Laumer, "SWEET THEIR BLOOD AND STICKY" by Albert Teichner, and "THE MIGHTIEST MAN" by Patrick Fahy. The issue also includes intriguing tales like "QUIET, PLEASE" by Kevin Scott and "PENNY WISE AND FASHION FOOLISH" by Theodore Sturgeon, showcasing a rich variety of themes and narratives.
Set against a backdrop of desperation, the narrative follows a commander facing dwindling resources and increasing casualties as his team embarks on a critical mission. Tasked with constructing a 50,000-ton scouting ship, they aim to explore the unknown Omega Colony, humanity's last colonial effort. The story delves into themes of survival, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of leadership in dire circumstances, as the crew grapples with the looming threat of failure and the weight of their mission.
Set against the backdrop of the 29th Century's frontier worlds, the story delves into the thrilling escapades of interplanetary diplomat Retief. His unique approach to cosmic diplomacy often leads to unexpected challenges and interstellar crises, revealing the complexities of human and non-human interactions. As the first collection of Retief's adventures, it promises readers a captivating blend of astounding and weird science fiction, showcasing the high-stakes diplomacy that defines his character and the universe he navigates.
Exploring the evolution of intelligent fighting machines, this collection delves into the Bolo division's advancements in tank design, blending artificial intelligence with military prowess. As these self-aware war machines develop capabilities that often surpass their human controllers, the stories unfold with gripping action and profound themes. Beyond mere combat, the narratives reflect on the human condition, examining the tragic consequences of technological advancements and the moral dilemmas they create. A seminal work in military science fiction, it highlights the genre's impact on storytelling.
Keith Laumer, a prominent figure in 1960s and 1970s science fiction, is celebrated for his iconic characters like Retief and the Bolos. This extensive 600-page collection features 21 of his notable stories, including a complete novel, showcasing his imaginative storytelling and unique universe. Readers can expect a blend of adventure, humor, and thought-provoking themes that highlight Laumer's skill in crafting engaging narratives within the sci-fi genre.
The story follows Legion, who unexpectedly transitions from soldier to master of a private island, encountering ancient Druid pits and engaging in life-or-death battles in the great hall at Okk-Hamiloth on a distant planet. This thrilling adventure is filled with unexpected twists and challenges, promising to leave readers pondering its intricacies long after the final page.
Chester W. Chester IV discovers a hidden underground supercomputer in his newly inherited mansion, along with significant IRS debts. After a few drinks from the wine cellar, he and his friend Case Mulvihill devise a daring scheme to trick the IRS using the computer's unique features. However, their plan quickly spirals out of control, leading to an unexpected and adventurous journey. Originally serialized in 1963, this tale showcases Keith Laumer's imaginative storytelling, recognized by multiple Hugo and Nebula Award nominations.
The XV Model M represents a groundbreaking advancement in automation, functioning independently without human intervention. Its exceptional performance sets a new standard for robotic technology, showcasing the potential of fully automated systems in various applications. This innovation marks a significant milestone in the evolution of machines designed for autonomous operation.
The narrative centers on Jackson, who, after volunteering for a suspended animation experiment, awakens 80 years later to a devastated world. He discovers the existence of BOLOs, advanced super tanks designed for defense and destruction. With the aid of one of these formidable machines, Jackson embarks on a mission to restore humanity amidst the chaos that has unfolded during his long slumber. The story explores themes of survival, technology, and the resilience of the human spirit.