01/01/2015
Best known for such blockbuster film adaptations of his work as Blade Runner and Total Recall, Dick (1928…82) is an iconic figure in sf whose every written word remains of interest. This generous sampling of his early writings is an entirely original collection covering a wide variety of themes and settings, ranging from the near to the far future and from the earthly mundane to almost unimaginably exotic worlds. Not every story is a gem, but each contains features that will help Dick devotees appreciate how his writing evolved and exhilarate other listeners with the sheer startling novelty of his ideas. Chris Lutkin's narration moves the stories along nicely. VERDICT An excellent addition to all libraries with sf buffs among their patrons.—R. Kent Rasmussen, Thousand Oaks, CA