by Isaac Asimov
First published 1985
This anthology brings together fifteen stories that defined science fiction in 1951. Isaac Asimov contributes "Breeds There a Man...?" alongside works from Arthur C. Clarke, Ray Bradbury, and other masters of the genre. Clarke's "The Sentinel" explores alien artifacts on the moon, while his "Superiority" examines how advanced technology can lead to military defeat. Bradbury's "The Fire Balloons" follows missionaries encountering ethereal life forms on Mars. C.M. Kornbluth delivers two powerful entries: "The Marching Morons" depicts a future where intelligence has declined, and "With These Hands" explores artistic creation in a mechanized world. Fritz Leiber's "A Pail of Air" shows a family surviving Earth's frozen atmosphere after the planet left its orbit. Jack Finney's "I'm Scared" ventures into time manipulation horror. The collection spans from William Tenn's "Null-P" to Julian May's "Dune Roller," capturing the year's diverse voices and themes. Each story reflects 1951's unique blend of scientific speculation and human drama.
Genres: short-stories, science-fiction, 20th-century
Vibes: suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, military-romance
Setting: Mars, Moon
Period: 1951
352 pages · Mass Market Paperback · DAW Books