by Jack Vance
First published 1969
This collection gathers eight stories that explore different corners of the fantastic. In "The Miracle Workers" and "Telek," characters grapple with telekinetic powers and demonic possession across alien landscapes. "Cil" follows adventures in the dying Earth's twenty-millionth century, where magic and technology blur together. "The Men Return" examines what happens when humanity faces an obscure physical phenomenon that defies explanation. "The New Prime" ventures into purely technological territory without supernatural elements. Each story adopts its own perspective and mood, from the picaresque wanderings of far-future rogues to intimate encounters with psionic abilities. Vance draws readers into worlds where the boundaries between science and sorcery dissolve, where ancient knowledge competes with alien forces, and where characters must navigate realities that operate by unfamiliar rules. These tales reflect fascination with the unknown rather than attempt to provide answers about the mysteries they present.
Genres: short-stories, science-fiction, fantasy
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: fish-out-of-water, found-family
Setting: Alien Landscapes
Period: Twenty-Millionth Century
288 pages · Hardcover · Macmillan