The Early Work of Philip K. Dick, Volume 1: The Variable Man and Other Stories Book

Edited and selected by noted scholar Gregg Rickman, The Early Work of Philip K. Dick, Volume One: 1952-1953, and Volume Two: 1953-1954, encompasses a total of twenty-six stories from the early years of Philip K. Dick. With extensive story notes and introductions by Rickman, and packaged to belong on any shelf, The Early Work of Philip K. Dick promises an early peek into the many worlds created by one of the acclaimed masters of science fiction and fantasy.

Publishers Weekly

This volume collects 15 of the earliest short publications by Philip K. Dick (1928–1982), all from 1952–1953. Though the young author is clearly finding his footing in these stories, many of the elements he developed in later works are present in embryonic form. The nature of reality is held up to question in “Adjustment Team,” while self-repairing and replicating robots populate “James P. Crow,” “The Gun” and “Jon's World.” The weak must prevail against seemingly invincible opponents in “Beyond Lies the Wub,” “Piper in the Woods” and “Souvenir,” and the prospect of total destruction looms in “The Variable Man.” Rickman provides an informative introduction and detailed endnotes on each story, which alone would make this volume worth acquiring. This collection is a must-have for PKD fans. (Nov.)