About the book:
A lesser-known Herbert work, originally published as a short story and expanded into a novella a playful science fiction piece about a galactic library and the bureaucratic war over its future.
Lighter in tone than his major work, showing a Herbert who could be genuinely funny when he chose.
Of interest mainly to Herbert completists, but enjoyable on its own terms.
Condtion:
Good secondhand condition.
Cover wear.
Last page listing alternate title missing.
Follow the link below to view our other listings:
https://www.bobshop.co.za/seller/5375758/Orphan_Books
About the author:
Frank Herbert (1920 to 1986)
Born Franklin Patrick Herbert Jr. in Tacoma, Washington, in 1920, Frank Herbert grew up in a rural environment that fostered his love of nature and ecology. He worked as a journalist, photographer, and in various other jobs (including as a clam diver and oyster farmer) before becoming a full-time writer. His deep interest in ecology, psychology, religion, and politics shaped his ambitious, idea-dense fiction.
His early success came with short stories, but it was Dune (1965) that made him a giant of science fiction. Herbert developed a dense, world-building style that combined ecological insight, political intrigue, messianic themes, and philosophical depth. He treated science fiction as a vehicle for exploring complex systemsenvironmental, social, and psychological.
Deeply influenced by ecology, Zen Buddhism, the works of Carl Jung, and the history of messianic movements, Herbert in turn became one of the most important figures in science fiction. He profoundly shaped ecological SF and epic world-building, influencing authors such as Neal Stephenson, Kim Stanley Robinson, Ursula K. Le Guin (in dialogue), and many writers of sprawling, idea-rich space operas and environmental fiction. Dune remains a cornerstone of the genre.
Recurring preoccupations include the relationship between humans and their environment, the dangers of charismatic leaders and messianic movements, the complexities of power and religion, long-term thinking, and the resilience of life. Major works include the Dune series (especially the first novel), The Dosadi Experiment, and The White Plague.
Herbert continued writing and expanding the Dune universe until his death in 1986 at the age of 65.
Frank Herberts influence on literature and culture is immense: he helped elevate science fiction to serious literary status with Dune, creating one of the most richly imagined universes in fiction while remaining utterly unique in his blend of ecological wisdom, political sophistication, and mythic storytelling.
.jpg)
