Alfred Bester

 Easton Press Alfred Bester books

The Demolished Man - Masterpieces of Science Fiction - 1986

 

 

Alfred Bester biography

Alfred Bester, born on December 18, 1913, and passing away on September 30, 1987, was an American science fiction author and scriptwriter known for his groundbreaking contributions to the genre. Born in New York City, Bester's early life and education were marked by a deep interest in literature and the arts.

Bester began his writing career in the 1930s with short stories and radio scripts. However, it was in the 1950s that he rose to prominence as a science fiction writer with the publication of his novel The Demolished Man in 1953. This novel, a tale of murder in a future society where telepathic abilities are the norm, earned Bester the first-ever Hugo Award for Best Novel in 1953, establishing him as a significant figure in the science fiction literary landscape. Following the success of The Demolished Man, Bester continued to make notable contributions to the genre. In 1956, he published The Stars My Destination (also known as "Tiger! Tiger!"), another influential work that explored themes of revenge, transformation, and the power of the human mind. This novel is considered a classic in science fiction literature and has left a lasting impact on the genre.

 

Fondly Fahrenheit by Alfred Bester

Fondly Fahrenheit is a classic science fiction story that explores the relationship between a man and his android, which has a particularly disturbing and unpredictable behavior. The story delves into themes of identity, sanity, and the consequences of advanced technology. Alfred Bester, an American science fiction author, is known for his innovative and influential contributions to the genre. Fondly Fahrenheit was first published in 1954 and has since been regarded as a notable work in the science fiction canon.

Apart from his novels, Bester worked as a writer for comic books, including a stint at DC Comics in the 1940s. He contributed to popular titles such as Superman and Green Lantern.

Bester's writing style was characterized by its inventiveness, wit, and psychological depth. His works often pushed the boundaries of conventional science fiction, incorporating elements of psychological drama and exploring the human condition in futuristic settings. While his output as a novelist was relatively limited, with only a handful of novels to his name, Alfred Bester's influence on science fiction far exceeded the quantity of his works. His innovative storytelling and imaginative concepts continue to inspire generations of writers and readers in the science fiction genre. Alfred Bester's impact on speculative fiction solidifies his legacy as a pioneering figure in the golden age of science fiction literature.

 

The Demolished Man

In a world in which the police have telepathic powers, how do you get away with murder?

Ben Reichs heads a huge 24th century business empire, spanning the solar system. He is also an obsessed, driven man determined to murder a rival. To avoid capture, in a society where murderers can be detected even before they commit their crime, is the greatest challenge of his life.