Algis Budrys was a Lithuanian-American science fiction author whose work is characterized by its sharp insights into the human psyche, often set against innovative speculative backdrops. His writing frequently delved into darker themes such as alienation, social oppression, and the ethical quandaries posed by technology, frequently employing a wry, critical tone. Budrys excelled at crafting compelling narratives that challenged readers to consider the nature of reality and humanity's future trajectory. His legacy lies in his ability to blend intellectual depth with immersive storytelling, securing his place as a significant voice in science fiction.
The book is a significant historical work that has been carefully preserved by Alpha Editions for future generations. It has been reformatted, re-typed, and redesigned to enhance readability, ensuring that it is not merely a scanned copy but a clear, accessible version of the original text. This effort highlights the importance of maintaining and sharing valuable literature throughout history.
The narrative explores a world where feudal structures reemerge, with Pennsylvania resembling a land of moats and nobles, while Manhattan is populated by vassals. Amidst this backdrop, barbarian hordes threaten to invade, creating a tense atmosphere of conflict and societal upheaval. The story delves into the cyclical nature of history, reflecting on how past systems of power and class dynamics resurface in contemporary settings, raising questions about civilization and survival.
The protagonist serves as a vendor of dreams, offering others access to fantastical worlds and experiences. However, he faces a profound personal challenge: he is blind to his own needs for growth and understanding. This internal struggle highlights the contrast between his ability to create and share dreams and his inability to confront his own reality, setting the stage for a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.
Set in a distant future, this suspenseful novel explores the lengths one man will go to safeguard humanity from oppression. The narrative delves into themes of sacrifice and moral dilemmas, showcasing the protagonist's struggle against tyranny. Algis Budrys, known for his acclaimed works like Rogue Moon and Michaelmas, crafts a compelling story that challenges readers to consider the cost of freedom and the fight against authoritarianism.
"The first novel is "Address: Centauri" by F.L. Wallace. The accidentals were human ... but not human enough for Earth. Humans had abolished nearly every disease, deformity, and defect; but there were still a few that couldn't be fixed by surgery or cures. Those people who couldn't be cured or repaired to reflect the perfection of the rest of the populace just didn't belong. They were called accidentals. Their home was an asteroid called Handicap Haven--the residents called it the Junkpile. But there were those among the accidentals who longed for something better--a greater sense of freedom, and the vast reaches of space seemed to hold promise of that."--Website
From the vaults of the SF Gateway, the most comprehensive digital library of classic SFF titles ever assembled, comes an ideal introduction to the work of acclaimed author Algis Budrys.
An anthology of classic science fiction tales from the 1950s.
This collection features five captivating stories by renowned authors, showcasing a range of imaginative narratives. Each tale offers a unique perspective, blending elements of science fiction and speculative themes. Readers can expect thought-provoking plots and distinctive writing styles from Algis Budrys, Frank Herbert, Robert Sheckley, Kurt Vonnegut, Jr., and Jamie Wild, making this anthology a diverse exploration of the genre.
Rogue Moon is a short sf novel by Algis Budrys, published in 1960. It was a 1961 Hugo Award nominee, losing to Walter M. Miller's A Canticle for Leibowitz. A novella-length version of the story was included in the anthology The Science Fiction Hall of Fame, Volume 2, edited by Ben Bova. Before 1969, every science fiction writer wrote his or her own version of the first Moon landing. Few carry the horror of Budrys' unsettling story. During all recorded history, the Moon has hovered above our heads, a timeless symbol for lovers' ecstasy. Goddesses & Gibson Girls have tripped the light fantastic of her beams while sonneteers & scientists have scanned her changing phases. Now humans had actually reached the Moon, & on it the explorers found a structure, a formation so terrible & incomprehensible that it couldn't even be described in human terms. It was a thing that devoured people; that killed them again & again in torturous, unfathomable ways. Earthbound are the only two men who could probe the thing: Al Barker, a reckless thrill-seeker, whose loving mistress was death, & Dr. Edward Hawks, a scientific murderer, whose greatest mission was rebirth.