Collector's Item By: Evelyn E. Smith (1927-2000)
Collector's Item by Evelyn E. Smith is a delightful collection of science fiction short stories that take readers on a journey through imaginative worlds and thought-provoking concepts. Each story is beautifully crafted and offers a unique perspective, making it a must-read for any fan of the genre. The book starts with a bang, introducing us to a future where advertising has taken over every aspect of life. "O Ye of Little Faith" is a satirical masterpiece that asks important questions about consumerism and the power of persuasion. Smith's impeccable writing skillfully blends humor and social commentary, making this story a standout in the collection. As we progress through the pages, we encounter an assortment of peculiar characters and extraordinary situations. From a telepathic cat who investigates a murder in "Cat, and I" to a time-traveling historian determined to alter the past in "The Doorway," Smith demonstrates her ability to captivate readers with her imaginative storytelling. Each story presents a different concept or moral dilemma, challenging readers to reflect on their own beliefs and values. One of the highlights of this collection is Smith's ability to create relatable and well-rounded characters. Despite the vast array of futuristic settings, the emotional depth portrayed in each story is remarkably human. Whether it's a young woman discovering her true potential in "The Vilbar Party" or a robot realizing its capacity for love in "The Unwilling," the characters in Collector's Item leave a lasting impression. Another commendable aspect of Smith's writing is her ability to balance action with introspection. While the stories are often fast-paced and packed with excitement, there are moments of quiet reflection that allow readers to absorb the underlying themes. This delicate balance ensures that the stories remain engaging and thought-provoking from beginning to end. Collector's Item is a testament to Evelyn E. Smith's incredible talent as a science fiction author. Her ability to seamlessly blend speculative elements with profound insights into the human condition is truly remarkable. This collection is destined to be cherished by both avid fans of the genre and newcomers alike. It serves as a reminder that great science fiction not only entertains but challenges us to examine our world with fresh eyes. First Page: Collector's Item By EVELYN E. SMITH Illustrated by EMSH [Transcriber's Note: This etext was produced from Galaxy Science Fiction December 1954. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.] [Sidenote: Being trapped in the steaming h l of Venus is no excuse for forgetting one's manners but anyone abducted, marooned, tricked, kept from tea might well crack under the strain! ] "What I should like to know," Professor Bernardi said, gazing pensively after the lizard man as he bore the shrieking form of Miss Anspacher off in his scaly arms, "is whether he is planning to eat her or make love to her. Because, in the latter instance, I'm not sure we should interfere. It may be her only chance." [Illustration] "Carl!" his wife cried indignantly. "That's a horrid thing to say! You must rescue her at once!" "Oh, I suppose so," he said, then gave his wife a nasty little grin that he knew would irritate her. "It isn't that she's unattractive, my dear, in case you hadn't noticed, though she's pretty well past the bloom of youth " " Will you stop making leering noises and go save her or not ?" "I was coming to that. It's just that she persists in using her Ph... Continue reading book >>

Collector's Item By: Evelyn E. Smith (1927-2000)

Collector's Item by Evelyn E. Smith is a delightful collection of science fiction short stories that take readers on a journey through imaginative worlds and thought-provoking concepts. Each story is beautifully crafted and offers a unique perspective, making it a must-read for any fan of the genre.

The book starts with a bang, introducing us to a future where advertising has taken over every aspect of life. "O Ye of Little Faith" is a satirical masterpiece that asks important questions about consumerism and the power of persuasion. Smith's impeccable writing skillfully blends humor and social commentary, making this story a standout in the collection.

As we progress through the pages, we encounter an assortment of peculiar characters and extraordinary situations. From a telepathic cat who investigates a murder in "Cat, and I" to a time-traveling historian determined to alter the past in "The Doorway," Smith demonstrates her ability to captivate readers with her imaginative storytelling. Each story presents a different concept or moral dilemma, challenging readers to reflect on their own beliefs and values.

One of the highlights of this collection is Smith's ability to create relatable and well-rounded characters. Despite the vast array of futuristic settings, the emotional depth portrayed in each story is remarkably human. Whether it's a young woman discovering her true potential in "The Vilbar Party" or a robot realizing its capacity for love in "The Unwilling," the characters in Collector's Item leave a lasting impression.

Another commendable aspect of Smith's writing is her ability to balance action with introspection. While the stories are often fast-paced and packed with excitement, there are moments of quiet reflection that allow readers to absorb the underlying themes. This delicate balance ensures that the stories remain engaging and thought-provoking from beginning to end.

Collector's Item is a testament to Evelyn E. Smith's incredible talent as a science fiction author. Her ability to seamlessly blend speculative elements with profound insights into the human condition is truly remarkable. This collection is destined to be cherished by both avid fans of the genre and newcomers alike. It serves as a reminder that great science fiction not only entertains but challenges us to examine our world with fresh eyes.

First Page:

Collector's Item

By EVELYN E. SMITH

Illustrated by EMSH

[Transcriber's Note: This etext was produced from Galaxy Science Fiction December 1954. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.]

[Sidenote: Being trapped in the steaming h l of Venus is no excuse for forgetting one's manners but anyone abducted, marooned, tricked, kept from tea might well crack under the strain! ]

"What I should like to know," Professor Bernardi said, gazing pensively after the lizard man as he bore the shrieking form of Miss Anspacher off in his scaly arms, "is whether he is planning to eat her or make love to her. Because, in the latter instance, I'm not sure we should interfere. It may be her only chance."

[Illustration]

"Carl!" his wife cried indignantly. "That's a horrid thing to say! You must rescue her at once!"

"Oh, I suppose so," he said, then gave his wife a nasty little grin that he knew would irritate her. "It isn't that she's unattractive, my dear, in case you hadn't noticed, though she's pretty well past the bloom of youth "

" Will you stop making leering noises and go save her or not ?"

"I was coming to that. It's just that she persists in using her Ph... Continue reading book >>

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