Connie Willis is an American science fiction author celebrated for her distinctive blend of humor and profound insight. Her narratives frequently delve into the intricacies of time travel, exploring the clash between rational pursuits and the often absurd nature of human behavior. Willis excels in crafting accessible prose and endearing characters, setting her stories within meticulously realized worlds where logic confronts unexpected challenges. Her masterful application of the comedy of manners within speculative fiction solidifies her status as a significant voice in contemporary literature.
Set against a backdrop of alien invasions and conspiracies, this novel explores the absurd beliefs that people hold, some of which might surprisingly hold a grain of truth. The story combines humor and intrigue, showcasing the author's trademark wit and imaginative storytelling. As characters navigate a world filled with outlandish ideas, readers are invited to question the nature of reality and belief itself, all while enjoying a captivating narrative from a celebrated award-winning author.
The narrative offers a unique perspective on the War of the Worlds through the eyes of various celebrity eyewitnesses worldwide. These accounts provide a blend of personal experiences and dramatic interpretations of the Martian invasion, capturing the chaos and fear that ensued. The book combines elements of science fiction with real-world celebrity culture, creating an engaging retelling of H.G. Wells' classic tale while exploring themes of fame, perception, and the human response to extraterrestrial threats.
The narrative explores the impact of aerial bombardment on a love affair, highlighting how the chaos of war transforms the mundane into something noble while simultaneously undermining the couple's relationship. After three years of successfully navigating the threats to their bond, they face a new challenge: surviving a bombing that leaves them trapped in a collapsed building. The story delves into the complexities of love and survival amidst the horrors of war, questioning the nature of their connection when faced with life and death.
This collection features three classic sci-fi novellas from a renowned Hugo and Nebula award-winning author, showcasing imaginative storytelling and thought-provoking themes. Each novella explores unique concepts within the genre, offering readers a blend of adventure, speculative ideas, and deep philosophical questions. The author's distinctive voice and creative world-building are highlighted, making this volume a must-read for fans of science fiction and those interested in the genre's evolution.
Featuring twelve reimagined holiday tales, this expanded edition includes five stories making their debut. Each tale offers a fresh perspective on classic themes, blending tradition with creativity to evoke the spirit of Christmas in new and engaging ways.
Svižně napsaný příběh se odehrává se v blízké budoucnosti, kdy bude možné, k nepřetržité komunikaci a dostupnosti přes sociální sítě, i neustálému vylepšování technologií, podstoupit operativní zákrok, který propojí partnery tak, aby vnímali pocity a myšlenky druhého.
Právě to nabídne Briddey Flanniganové její přítel Trent namísto zásnubního prstenu. Briddey je nadšená, vždyť EED zákrok prohloubí jejich vzájemnou lásku a umožní jim dokonalé souznění. K zasnoubení má dojít po úspěšném navázání spojení po operaci. Briddey navíc doufá, že se tím konečně dostane z dosahu přílišné péče a starostlivosti své irské rodiny. Jenomže věci se nakonec nevyvinou přesně podle plánu. Po probuzení z narkózy čeká Briddey překvapení: k propojení sice došlo, ale zcela jinému, než předpokládala.
Od té chvíle se rozjíždí napínavý a vtipný příběh, který převrátí Briddeyin dosavadní život naruby a dovede ji k zásadnímu přehodnocení pohledu na lidi kolem sebe.
Featuring 21 captivating stories, this anthology explores various visions of Earth's potential demise through the lens of renowned and contemporary sci-fi authors. It includes works by legends like Jules Verne and Ursula K. Le Guin, alongside modern voices such as Dale Bailey and Megan Arkenberg. The collection balances humor and grit while presenting both hopeful and grim post-apocalyptic scenarios. Curated by Robert Silverberg, each tale is accompanied by his insightful introductions, making it a must-read for both seasoned and new fans of speculative fiction.
Connie Willis (ur. 1945) amerykańska pisarka science fiction. Debiutowała w
1970 roku, a pierwszą powieść opublikowała w dwanaście lat później. Jest
najczęściej honorowanym pisarzem SF wszech czasów - ma na swoim koncie m.in.
10 Nagród HUGO, 6 Nagród NEBULA, Nagrody LOCUSA, do tego mnóstwo nominacji. W
swojej twórczości bardzo często sięga po motyw podróży w czasie lub kontakt z
Obcymi. Często jej opowiadania są zabarwione ironią i inteligentnym humorem,
który w zawoalowany sposób ośmiesza ludzkie przywary, jak choćby w genialnym
opowiadaniu „Nawet królowa”, w którym Connie Willis opisuje świat, gdzie
równouprawnienie płci stało się faktem. To spełnienie marzeń wszystkich
feministek nadal nie jest wolne jednak od wojującego feminizmu, który w tym
opowiadaniu przybiera komiczny charakter. Tom 1, Śmierć na Nilu, będzie
zawierał: Śmierć na Nilu - Hugo 1994, nominacja Nebula 1994 Nawet królowa -
Hugo 1993, Nebula 1993, Locus 1993 Jak te, które pamiętamy - nominacja Hugo
2004, nominacja Nebula 2004 Ostatni winnebago - Hugo 1989, Nebula 1989 Pogrom
komiczny - nominacja Hugo 1987 Cud - nominacja Hugo 1992 Krótka przerwa -
nominacja Hugo 1990 List od Clearysów - Nebula 1983
Connie Willis is celebrated for her versatile storytelling, blending screwball comedy with profound tragedy. Her works feature intricate plot twists and innovative science, all while showcasing memorable characters. Recognized as a Grand Master by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America and inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame, Willis continues to make a significant impact in the literary world.
