The Street That Wasn't There By: Clifford D. Simak (1904-1988)
In "The Street That Wasn't There," Clifford D. Simak takes readers on a captivating journey through the realms of science fiction and fantasy. The story is centered around protagonist Sam Osterhout, a regular small-town newspaper columnist who stumbles upon an inexplicable phenomenon – a street that appears and disappears seemingly at random. Simak's masterful storytelling immediately draws the reader into a world where the boundaries between reality and the unknown become blurred. With his remarkable ability to create vivid and believable characters, the author seamlessly introduces us to an intriguing cast that surrounds Sam, adding depth to the narrative. From his skeptical wife to the enigmatic Professor Kellogg and the mysterious Yellow Man, each character plays a crucial role in unraveling the secrets of the elusive street. The plot takes unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers engrossed until the very end. Simak's writing shines in his ability to balance action-packed scenes with introspective musings on the nature of existence. Through thought-provoking dialogues and inner reflections, he delves into philosophical questions about reality, perception, and the human condition. What makes "The Street That Wasn't There" truly exceptional is Simak's skill at weaving together elements of science fiction, fantasy, and mystery. The ebb and flow of the story's supernatural elements are subtly interwoven with the everyday routines of Sam's life, giving the narrative a sense of realism that is both refreshing and eerie. The author adeptly explores themes of time, parallel universes, and the impact of the unknown on human nature. Simak's prose is both eloquent and accessible, making this novel a captivating read for sci-fi enthusiasts and casual readers alike. His descriptive language immerses the reader in the strange, yet enticing world he has carefully constructed. Simak's attention to detail not only brings the settings to life but also enhances the overall atmosphere of mystery and wonder. While some readers may find the conclusion slightly ambiguous, it is also a testament to Simak's ability to leave room for speculation, allowing the story to linger in the minds of readers even after the final page. "The Street That Wasn't There" is a thought-provoking and imaginative exploration of the boundaries of reality, sure to captivate fans of speculative fiction and those seeking a thrilling, mind-bending adventure. First Page: Transcriber's Note: This etext was produced from Comet, July 1941. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed. The Street That Wasn't There by CLIFFORD D. SIMAK and CARL JACOBI [Illustration] Mr. Jonathon Chambers left his house on Maple Street at exactly seven o'clock in the evening and set out on the daily walk he had taken, at the same time, come rain or snow, for twenty solid years. The walk never varied. He paced two blocks down Maple Street, stopped at the Red Star confectionery to buy a Rose Trofero perfecto, then walked to the end of the fourth block on Maple. There he turned right on Lexington, followed Lexington to Oak, down Oak and so by way of Lincoln back to Maple again and to his home. He didn't walk fast. He took his time. He always returned to his front door at exactly 7:45. No one ever stopped to talk with him. Even the man at the Red Star confectionery, where he bought his cigar, remained silent while the purchase was being made. Mr. Chambers merely tapped on the glass top of the counter with a coin, the man reached in and brought forth the box, and Mr... Continue reading book >>

The Street That Wasn't There By: Clifford D. Simak (1904-1988)

In "The Street That Wasn't There," Clifford D. Simak takes readers on a captivating journey through the realms of science fiction and fantasy. The story is centered around protagonist Sam Osterhout, a regular small-town newspaper columnist who stumbles upon an inexplicable phenomenon – a street that appears and disappears seemingly at random.

Simak's masterful storytelling immediately draws the reader into a world where the boundaries between reality and the unknown become blurred. With his remarkable ability to create vivid and believable characters, the author seamlessly introduces us to an intriguing cast that surrounds Sam, adding depth to the narrative. From his skeptical wife to the enigmatic Professor Kellogg and the mysterious Yellow Man, each character plays a crucial role in unraveling the secrets of the elusive street.

The plot takes unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers engrossed until the very end. Simak's writing shines in his ability to balance action-packed scenes with introspective musings on the nature of existence. Through thought-provoking dialogues and inner reflections, he delves into philosophical questions about reality, perception, and the human condition.

What makes "The Street That Wasn't There" truly exceptional is Simak's skill at weaving together elements of science fiction, fantasy, and mystery. The ebb and flow of the story's supernatural elements are subtly interwoven with the everyday routines of Sam's life, giving the narrative a sense of realism that is both refreshing and eerie. The author adeptly explores themes of time, parallel universes, and the impact of the unknown on human nature.

Simak's prose is both eloquent and accessible, making this novel a captivating read for sci-fi enthusiasts and casual readers alike. His descriptive language immerses the reader in the strange, yet enticing world he has carefully constructed. Simak's attention to detail not only brings the settings to life but also enhances the overall atmosphere of mystery and wonder.

While some readers may find the conclusion slightly ambiguous, it is also a testament to Simak's ability to leave room for speculation, allowing the story to linger in the minds of readers even after the final page. "The Street That Wasn't There" is a thought-provoking and imaginative exploration of the boundaries of reality, sure to captivate fans of speculative fiction and those seeking a thrilling, mind-bending adventure.

First Page:

Transcriber's Note:

This etext was produced from Comet, July 1941. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.

The Street That

Wasn't There

by CLIFFORD D. SIMAK and CARL JACOBI

[Illustration]

Mr. Jonathon Chambers left his house on Maple Street at exactly seven o'clock in the evening and set out on the daily walk he had taken, at the same time, come rain or snow, for twenty solid years.

The walk never varied. He paced two blocks down Maple Street, stopped at the Red Star confectionery to buy a Rose Trofero perfecto, then walked to the end of the fourth block on Maple. There he turned right on Lexington, followed Lexington to Oak, down Oak and so by way of Lincoln back to Maple again and to his home.

He didn't walk fast. He took his time. He always returned to his front door at exactly 7:45. No one ever stopped to talk with him. Even the man at the Red Star confectionery, where he bought his cigar, remained silent while the purchase was being made. Mr. Chambers merely tapped on the glass top of the counter with a coin, the man reached in and brought forth the box, and Mr... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Science
Short stories

eBook links
Wikipedia – Clifford D. Simak
Wikipedia – The Street That Wasn't There

eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook • iBooks for iPhone and iPad • Nook • Sony Reader	Kindle eBook • Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook • Load eBook in browser	Text File eBook • Computers • Windows • Mac