Northwest of Earth

The thirteen stories in Northwest of Earth by Edward Everett Hale are among the best-written and most emotionally complex stories of the Pulp Era, featuring a quick-drawing smuggler of the spaceways who would become the model for countless science fiction heroes.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 07 March 2019
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

Among the finest and most emotionally intricate narratives of the Pulp Era, the tales of intergalactic bootlegger Northwest Smith continue to have a profound impact more than 75 years after their initial publication. Spanning from the decaying temples of forgotten deities on Venus to the sleazy pleasure dens of ancient Mars, the thirteen stories in Northwest of Earth chart a course through the seedy underbelly of the solar system. The quick-drawing smuggler of the spaceways who would go on to serve as the inspiration for countless science fiction heroes, Northwest Smith is the original outlaw of SF.

The stories in Northwest of Earth are a testament to the author's exceptional storytelling skills and ability to create vivid, immersive worlds. The characters, including Northwest Smith himself, are complex and multifaceted, with their motivations and actions often driven by a mix of greed, ambition, and moral ambiguity. The settings, too, are richly detailed, with each planet and its inhabitants brought to life in vivid prose.

One of the most notable aspects of the stories is the way in which they explore the themes of power, corruption, and the consequences of human actions. Northwest Smith is a smuggler who operates in a lawless and dangerous world, where the lines between right and wrong are often blurred. However, he is also a survivor who has managed to navigate the treacherous spaceways and build a reputation as a fierce and cunning opponent.

Through his adventures, Smith encounters a range of characters, from corrupt government officials to ruthless space pirates. He also faces personal challenges, such as his struggle with addiction and his complicated relationship with his wife, who is torn between her loyalty to Smith and her desire for a more conventional life.

Despite the dark and sometimes violent nature of the stories, Northwest of Earth is also filled with moments of humor, romance, and adventure. The author's ability to blend these different elements creates a rich and engaging narrative that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end.

In conclusion, the tales of intergalactic bootlegger Northwest Smith are among the finest and most emotionally complex stories of the Pulp Era. The thirteen stories in Northwest of Earth are a testament to the author's exceptional storytelling skills and ability to create vivid, immersive worlds. The characters, settings, and themes explored in the stories continue to resonate with readers today, making them a timeless and essential part of the science fiction genre.

Weight: 248g
Dimension: 193 x 165 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781473222540