Small World By: William F. Nolan (1928-)
Small World by William F. Nolan is an extraordinary piece of science fiction that takes readers on a thrilling journey through time. With its gripping storyline and well-developed characters, this book is a must-read for any fan of the genre. The story revolves around an incredible invention called the "Space-Time Transfer Device" (STT), which allows people to travel between different time periods. The protagonist, Dan Ryan, a historian and professor, is chosen to be the first person to test this groundbreaking technology. Through his eyes, readers are transported to various ancient civilizations and witness significant historical events. What sets this book apart is Nolan's meticulous attention to detail. Every era is described vividly, immersing the reader in a world that feels real and tangible. From the bustling streets of ancient Rome to the grandeur of the Egyptian pyramids, the author captures the essence of each period with remarkable precision. Ryan's character growth throughout the narrative is another highlight. As he journeys through time, he confronts his own fears and confronts the repercussions of meddling with history. Nolan skillfully explores the ethical implications of time travel, posing thought-provoking questions that push the reader to reflect on the consequences of tampering with the past. The pacing of the novel is superb, keeping readers engaged and eager to find out what awaits Ryan in each era. The plot twists and turns, ensuring that there is never a dull moment. Additionally, the dialogue is well-crafted, capturing the personalities and idiosyncrasies of the characters, making them relatable and memorable. Small World not only entertains but also educates, offering a fascinating glimpse into various historical periods. Nolan's extensive research is evident, and the integration of real historical figures and events adds an extra layer of authenticity to the story. However, the book does have a few minor flaws. Occasionally, the narrative becomes overly descriptive, hindering the pace. Some readers may also find certain aspects of the plot predictable. Nevertheless, these minor issues do not detract from the overall enjoyment of the story. In conclusion, Small World is a captivating and intelligent science fiction novel that combines time travel, history, and ethical dilemmas into an engrossing package. William F. Nolan's masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions create an unforgettable reading experience. This book is a true gem for science fiction enthusiasts and history buffs alike. First Page: What will happen when the alien ships strike Earth? And later? Who will survive? What will life be like in that latter day jungle? William F. Nolan, well known in SF circles on the West Coast, returns with this grim story of the days and the nights of Lewis Stillman survivor ... small world by WILLIAM F. NOLAN He was running, running down the long tunnels, the shadows hunting him, claws clutching at him, nearer ... In the waiting windless dark, Lewis Stillman pressed into the building front shadows along Wilshire Boulevard. Breathing softly, the automatic poised and ready in his hand, he advanced with animal stealth toward Western, gliding over the night cool concrete, past ravaged clothing shops, drug and ten cent stores, their windows shattered, their doors ajar and swinging. The city of Los Angeles, painted in cold moonlight, was an immense graveyard; the tall white tombstone buildings thrust up from the silent pavement, shadow carved and lonely. Overturned metal corpses of trucks, busses and automobiles littered the streets. He paused under the wide marquee of the FOX WILTERN. Above his head, rows of splintered display bulbs gaped sharp glass teeth in wooden jaws. Lewis Stillman felt as though they might drop at any moment to pierce his body... Continue reading book >>

Small World By: William F. Nolan (1928-)

Small World by William F. Nolan is an extraordinary piece of science fiction that takes readers on a thrilling journey through time. With its gripping storyline and well-developed characters, this book is a must-read for any fan of the genre.

The story revolves around an incredible invention called the "Space-Time Transfer Device" (STT), which allows people to travel between different time periods. The protagonist, Dan Ryan, a historian and professor, is chosen to be the first person to test this groundbreaking technology. Through his eyes, readers are transported to various ancient civilizations and witness significant historical events.

What sets this book apart is Nolan's meticulous attention to detail. Every era is described vividly, immersing the reader in a world that feels real and tangible. From the bustling streets of ancient Rome to the grandeur of the Egyptian pyramids, the author captures the essence of each period with remarkable precision.

Ryan's character growth throughout the narrative is another highlight. As he journeys through time, he confronts his own fears and confronts the repercussions of meddling with history. Nolan skillfully explores the ethical implications of time travel, posing thought-provoking questions that push the reader to reflect on the consequences of tampering with the past.

The pacing of the novel is superb, keeping readers engaged and eager to find out what awaits Ryan in each era. The plot twists and turns, ensuring that there is never a dull moment. Additionally, the dialogue is well-crafted, capturing the personalities and idiosyncrasies of the characters, making them relatable and memorable.

Small World not only entertains but also educates, offering a fascinating glimpse into various historical periods. Nolan's extensive research is evident, and the integration of real historical figures and events adds an extra layer of authenticity to the story.

However, the book does have a few minor flaws. Occasionally, the narrative becomes overly descriptive, hindering the pace. Some readers may also find certain aspects of the plot predictable. Nevertheless, these minor issues do not detract from the overall enjoyment of the story.

In conclusion, Small World is a captivating and intelligent science fiction novel that combines time travel, history, and ethical dilemmas into an engrossing package. William F. Nolan's masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions create an unforgettable reading experience. This book is a true gem for science fiction enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

First Page:

What will happen when the alien ships strike Earth? And later? Who will survive? What will life be like in that latter day jungle? William F. Nolan, well known in SF circles on the West Coast, returns with this grim story of the days and the nights of Lewis Stillman survivor ...

small world

by WILLIAM F. NOLAN

He was running, running down the long tunnels, the shadows hunting him, claws clutching at him, nearer ...

In the waiting windless dark, Lewis Stillman pressed into the building front shadows along Wilshire Boulevard. Breathing softly, the automatic poised and ready in his hand, he advanced with animal stealth toward Western, gliding over the night cool concrete, past ravaged clothing shops, drug and ten cent stores, their windows shattered, their doors ajar and swinging. The city of Los Angeles, painted in cold moonlight, was an immense graveyard; the tall white tombstone buildings thrust up from the silent pavement, shadow carved and lonely. Overturned metal corpses of trucks, busses and automobiles littered the streets.

He paused under the wide marquee of the FOX WILTERN. Above his head, rows of splintered display bulbs gaped sharp glass teeth in wooden jaws. Lewis Stillman felt as though they might drop at any moment to pierce his body... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Science
Short stories

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Wikipedia – William F. Nolan
Wikipedia – Small World

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