The Best of Arthur C. Clarke: 1937-1971

Arthur C. Clarke, the author of such science fiction classics as Sands of Mars, Childhood's End and the world-famous 2001: A Space Odyssey is concerned with both the scientific and the metaphysical aspects of sf. A founder member of the British Interplanetary Society, Clarke originated the proposal for the use of satellites for communications: his technical knowledge is equalled only by his skill as a writer. These eighteen stories are chosen to show Clarke's development in both areas.

The collection includes

Hide and Seek: One man against a murderously efficient space cruiser – on an asteroid only 20 kilometres wide.

The Sentinel: The short story on which the author based 2001.

Sunjammer: A fleet of mighty sunships embarks upon a fabulous voyage.

This anthology includes a complete bibliography and an introduction by Arthur C. Clarke.

Contents:

• 1933: A Science Fiction Odyssey (essay)
  
• Travel by Wire!
• Retreat from Earth
• The Awakening
• Whacky
• Castaway
• History Lesson
• Hide and Seek
• Second Dawn
• The Sentinel
• The Star
• Refugee
• Venture to the Moon
  • The Starting Line
  • Robin Hood, F.R.S.
  • Green Fingers
  • All That Glitters
  • Watch This Space
  • A Question of Residence
• Into the Comet
• Summertime on Icarus
• Death and the Senator
• Hate
• Sunjammer
• A Meeting with Medusa
• Bibliography