The Science Fiction Hall of Fame by Ben Bova

The Science Fiction Hall of Fame: Volume 2A contains a plethora of novellas establishing the foundation of the science fiction genre, circulating from topics as diverse as the civilization of Jupiter to interpretations of physiological and psychological phenomena. Although the prominence of certain inclusions is incongruent, all of the insertions feature storylines acutely parallel to those found more recently, and all retain a dramatic bearing on the molding of the paranormal artificial genus. Authors including John W. Campbell, Lester del Rey, Henry Kuttner, and H. G. Wells contribute such eminent and illustrious offerings as Call Me Joe, Who Goes There?, Universe, and The Time Machine. Indeed, the quality of the novellas in The Science Fiction Hall of Fame: Volume 2A may only be met by the sheer quantity and breadth of them.

The Science Fiction Hall of Fame: Volume 2A consists, in the words of the dust jacket, of the greatest science fiction novellas of all time, [as] chosen by the members of the Science Fiction Writers of America. Although similar claims are often featured on a multiplicity of novels and compilations, on this particular anthology the veracity of that statement proves staunch. The sheer quality and the variety of latitude in the insertions proves most impressive. An array of distinct tones, moods, and writing styles are present, proving to allow appeal to all readers, while the wealth of details, settings, and stratagems allows for a diversified and refined experience. The preponderance of the anthology proves profoundly satisfying and rewarding, sure to gratify science-fiction discriminatories and tyros homogeneously. Overall, a pleasure to experience, and a necessity to those whose bookshelf space remains contested.

Contains some violent, frightening, and mature themes.

Reviewer Age:15

Reviewer City, State and Country: Shrewsbury, MA USA