One of the most influential science fiction writers of the 20th and 21st century, Arthur C. Clarke is the author of over 100 novels, novellas, and short story collections that laid the groundwork for the science fiction genre. Combining scientific knowledge and visionary literary aptitude, Clarke's work explored the implications of major scientific discoveries in astonishingly inventive and mystical settings.
Clarke's short stories and novels have won numerous Hugo and Nebula Awards, have been translated into more than 30 languages, and have sold millions of copies worldwide. Several of his books, including 2001: A Space Odyssey and 2010: Odyssey II, have been adapted into films that still stand as classic examples of the genre. Without a doubt, Arthur C. Clarke's is one of the most important voices in contemporary science fiction literature.
In the White Hart Pub in London just north of Fleet Street, Harry Purvis holds court-a consummate tall-tale teller who always has a good story up his sleeve. He is joined by science fiction writers Samuel Youd, John Wyndham, and Clarke himself-all under pseudonyms, and all trying to outdo each other with their outlandish tales of science and invention.
Inspired by the Jorkens collections by Lord Dunsany, this collection of stories is Clarke's third-and, while they were written in locations as diverse as New York and Sydney, they all have a distinctly English flavor. Written by one of the genre's most important authors, Tales of the White Hart is sure to delight Clarke fans, lovers of science fiction, and anyone who appreciates a good tall tale.
In the middle of the 21st century, a team of scientists develops the ultimate protective weapon-a device that causes all nitrate-based bombs and explosives nearby to detonate automatically. It seems like a benevolent invention-one that will protect mankind against weapons of mass destruction. But as the scientists struggle to ensure their invention is used only for peaceful purposes, it becomes increasingly clear that even protective weaponry comes with its own moral trade-offs.
Dr. Jeffrey Horton, the device's lead inventor, must fight to keep the weapon out of violent hands-and soon finds that not even those with the best intentions can be trusted. This riveting story of action, suspense, and science is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat-and turning the page.
The world's first lunar spacecraft is about to launch. The ship, Prometheus, is built from two separate components-one designed to travel from Earth's atmosphere to the Moon and back, and the other to carry the first component through Earth's atmosphere and into orbit. Sound familiar? That's because it's the basic description of the first space shuttle-well before its launch in 1971.
Prelude to Space was published in 1951-well before the first Sputnik expedition. Even so, the book is full of detailed technical descriptions and conversations regarding the possibility of spaceflight-many of which were actually included during the construction of the first spaceships-as well as telecommunications satellites. It's a fascinating read-from both a fictional and a historical perspective.
