The author's fourth collection of science fiction short stories. The title story tells of a dying child and his miraculous new toy. The other 14 include a fantasy novella about the last days of magic and a tale in which the possibility of an infinite variety of worlds is considered.
Bob Shaw Books
December 31, 1931 – February 11, 1996
Bob Shaw was noted for his originality and wit. His works often delved into the nature of reality and human experience, exploring complex scientific and philosophical concepts with sharp intelligence. He employed a distinctive style that drew readers into compelling worlds and provoked thought. His contribution to the science fiction genre lay in his unconventional perspective and his ability to blend scientific inquiry with profound humanity.
The Peace Machine
- 192 pages
- 7 hours of reading
Also published as Ground Zero Man.Hutchman was an ordinary man, doing his job, devising rocketry guidance systems. Life held its satisfactions and its frustrations. He had no spectacular ambitions. Then one day, Hutchman discovered that he could destroy the world--or save it, and destroy himself. There was no other way. But the masters of the earth didn't want it saved Hutchman's way. They wanted Hutchman destroyed along with his doomsday device. And so the chase was on. Hutchman had succeeded in one thing, at least--he had brought about unity among the world's powers. They all wanted him dead!
Medusa's Children
- 228 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Fisherman Hal Tarrant's life changes drastically when strange monsters appear in the deeps--creatures that seem intelligent and are vandalizing his nets. His next discovery is that of six castaways who turn out to be humans from another world. Tied to Earth by a strange history, they bear disastrous news.
A collection of stories:7 * Skirmish on a Summer Morning (1976)54 * Unreasonable Facsimile (1974)69 * A Full Member of the Club (1974)94 * The Silent Partners (1959)106 * The Giaconda Caper (1976)127 * An Uncomic Book Horror Story (1975)136 * The Brink (1972)141 * Waltz of the Bodysnatchers (1976)162 * A Little Night Flying (Dark Icarus) (1975)
The Two-Timers
- 139 pages
- 5 hours of reading
An Ace Science Fiction Special No. H-79; Paperback; original copyright 1968. 192 pp. Size MMPB. Binding intact; no loose pages; spine not creased. Covers and pages clean and unmarked EXCEPT minimal usual shelf wear. In excellent condition.
The Ceres Solution
- 237 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Cover artist: A. Pedro
The final volume in a science fiction series which features Toller Maraquine II, grandson of the hero of "The Ragged Astronauts" and "The Wooden Spaceships". Armed only with his sword and boundless courage, Toller becomes a pivotal figure in events affecting the future of entire civilizations.
The Palace of Eternity
- 224 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Orbitsville Departure
- 192 pages
- 7 hours of reading
Two hundred years ago mankind found Orbitsville, a vast sphere whose habitable inner surface comprised living space equivalent to five billion Earths. The resulting migration was enthusiastic - and nearly total. Earth itself is a backwater now, a place with which the people of Orbitsville maintain only marginal contact. But just because it's backward doesn't mean it isn't dangerous.
Twenty-four years have passed since Toller Maraquine led the population of Land to the sister planet of Overland. Somehow, those left behind have become immune to the deadly pterthacosis which caused the exodus, and their voracious ruler now lays claim to Overland. Grudgingly put in charge of his planet's defence, Toller designs a front-line force of spaceships and satellites made of wood, which will engage the enemy fleet in the cold vastness of space, before the invaders can set food upon Overland. As the war proceeds, a far more deadly, alien menace makes itself known, which will threaten the entire existence of Overland.
