Cordwainer Smith
Cordwainer Smith was the pseudonym used by American author Paul Myron Anthony Linebarger for his science fiction works. Born on July 11, 1913, and passing away on August 6, 1966, Linebarger was also a noted East Asia scholar and expert in psychological warfare. His most famous works include the 'Instrumentality of Mankind' series, which is celebrated for its unique setting and literary style. Smith's writing is known for its complex, imaginative worlds and deep humanism.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. The Rediscovery Of Man
This book is a comprehensive collection of science fiction short stories that explore the vast and intricate universe of the Instrumentality of Mankind. Set in a future where humanity has reached the stars and undergone profound transformations, both biological and societal, the stories delve into themes of identity, morality, and the essence of what it means to be human. Through tales of engineered animals serving as companions to humans, to the rediscovery of lost cultures and the exploration of deep psychological and ethical dilemmas, the collection offers a rich tapestry of speculative fiction that challenges the reader to ponder the future of human civilization and our place in the universe.
The 9423rd Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Norstrilia
The book is a science fiction tale set in the far future, where humanity has spread across the stars and a young boy from the planet Norstrilia, which is the sole source of an incredibly valuable drug that prolongs life, becomes the wealthiest person in the galaxy due to a quirk in the drug's trade laws. To escape jealous neighbors and to experience life beyond his home, he purchases Earth, a planet that has become a historical theme park. The story weaves through his adventures and misadventures, as he navigates complex societal norms, encounters a variety of unique characters, and grapples with the meaning of wealth, power, and immortality in a universe where every human enhancement is possible, but the essence of humanity is hard to define.
The 9899th Greatest Book of All Time
