Poul Anderson

Poul Anderson was an American science fiction author who wrote during the mid-20th century. He is known for his prolific output and his work in the science fiction and fantasy genres. Anderson's writing often featured elements of hard science fiction, and he received multiple awards for his work, including several Hugo and Nebula Awards. Some of his notable works include 'The Broken Sword', 'Tau Zero', and the 'Dominic Flandry' series.

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.

  1. 1. Tau Zero

    In this science fiction novel, a group of scientists and astronauts embark on a mission to explore distant galaxies. However, their ship encounters a catastrophic accident that causes it to accelerate uncontrollably, reaching speeds close to the speed of light. As they hurtle through space, the crew must grapple with the effects of time dilation, facing the prospect of spending centuries on board while only a few years pass on Earth. With limited resources and an uncertain future, they must confront their own mortality and find a way to survive in the vastness of space.

    The 2834th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Three Hearts And Three Lions

    The book follows the adventures of Holger Carlsen, a Danish engineer who is mysteriously transported to a parallel universe where the legends of medieval Earth are real. In this fantastical world, he discovers that he is a fabled knight with a significant role to play in the battle between Law and Chaos. Armed with a magical sword and accompanied by allies including a swan maiden and a dwarf, Holger embarks on a quest to confront his destiny, battling trolls, dragons, and other mythical creatures while grappling with the mystery of his own identity and the true nature of the universe he has been thrust into.

    The 3782nd Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Broken Sword

    The novel is a dark fantasy tale set in a richly detailed Norse world, interweaving elements of Norse mythology and history with the story of Skafloc, a changeling raised by elves, and Valgard, his human half-brother. As Skafloc becomes a formidable warrior wielding a powerful, cursed sword, and Valgard falls under the sway of dark forces, their fates become entangled with gods, elves, and other creatures. The narrative explores themes of identity, destiny, and the tragic consequences of vengeance, culminating in epic battles and personal reckonings that echo the fatalistic spirit of the sagas.

    The 3782nd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The Time Patrol

    In "The Time Patrol," readers are introduced to a fascinating world where time travel has become a reality, leading to the formation of an organization dedicated to preserving history as it is known. The narrative follows the adventures of the Patrol's agents as they navigate various epochs, from ancient cities to future civilizations, to prevent temporal anomalies and ensure the integrity of the timeline. Through a series of interconnected stories, the book explores the complexities and ethical dilemmas of time travel, the intricacies of human history, and the unending quest to protect the past and future from those who seek to alter it for their own gain.

    The 9979th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. A Midsummer Tempest

    "A Midsummer Tempest" is a historical fantasy novel set in an alternate 17th century England where magic is real and the faeries are a powerful force. The story follows Prince Rupert and his loyal companion, the faerie girl Miranda, as they navigate political intrigue, war, and romance. Along the way, they encounter famous historical figures such as William Shakespeare and Oliver Cromwell, as well as mythical creatures like dragons and unicorns. The novel is a blend of adventure, romance, and political commentary, and explores themes of power, love, and the consequences of ambition.

    The 10098th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Hrolf Kraki's Saga

    This novel reimagines an ancient Norse saga, weaving a tale of heroism, magic, and betrayal in the legendary life of Hrolf Kraki, a revered Scandinavian king. The narrative delves into the intricate lives of warriors, sorcerers, and mythical creatures that populate the dark and tumultuous world of the Viking Age. Through a blend of historical lore and fantastical elements, the story explores themes of honor, power, and the complexities of human nature, as Hrolf Kraki ascends to power and faces challenges that test the limits of his strength and the loyalty of those around him. The saga, rich in the tradition of epic storytelling, offers a captivating exploration of the enduring impact of legend and the timeless struggle for greatness amidst the shadows of betrayal and fate.

    The 10715th Greatest Book of All Time