Arthur C. Clarke

Easton Press Arthur C. Clarke books

2001 : A Space Odyssey - Masterpieces of Science Fiction - 1986
The Fountains of Paradise - Masterpieces of Science Fiction - 1988
Rendezvous with Rama - Masterpieces of Science Fiction - 1993
Childhood's End - Masterpieces of Science Fiction - 1995
The Last Theorem - Signed First Edition of Science Fiction (co-authored with and signed by Frederik Pohl) - 2008

Who is Arthur C. Clarke?

Arthur C. Clarke, born on December 16, 1917, in Minehead, Somerset, England, was a visionary science fiction writer, inventor, and futurist. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the genre, with a career that spanned several decades and left an indelible mark on both literature and science. Clarke's early life was marked by a passion for exploration and a keen interest in science. During World War II, he served in the Royal Air Force, where his technical skills were put to use in the development of radar technology. After the war, he pursued his education at King's College London, earning a degree in mathematics and physics.

His writing career began in the late 1940s, with his first published short story, Rescue Party, appearing in the magazine Astounding Science Fiction in 1946. Clarke's breakthrough came in 1951 with the publication of The Sentinel, a short story that would later serve as the inspiration for Stanley Kubrick's iconic film 2001: A Space Odyssey. Collaborating with Kubrick on the screenplay for 2001: A Space Odyssey, Clarke gained widespread recognition and acclaim. The film, released in 1968, became a cinematic landmark, renowned for its groundbreaking special effects and its exploration of profound philosophical and existential questions. Throughout his career, Clarke authored numerous novels, short stories, and essays, earning prestigious awards such as the Hugo, Nebula, and Bram Stoker Awards. Some of his other notable works include Childhood's End, Rendezvous with Rama, and the Space Odyssey series.


Beyond his contributions to science fiction, Clarke made significant predictions about the future of technology. In 1945, he published an article in Wireless World outlining the concept of geostationary satellites for global communication. This idea, known as the Clarke Orbit, laid the foundation for the development of communication satellites and revolutionized telecommunications. Clarke was not only a prolific writer but also an advocate for the exploration of space. He believed in the potential of human space travel and often shared his vision of a future where humanity would expand beyond Earth. Clarke passed away on March 19, 2008, but his legacy continues to inspire generations of writers, scientists, and dreamers who are captivated by the possibilities of the cosmos.

 

2001: A Space Odyssey

On the Moon, an enigma is uncovered.

So great are the implications of this discovery that for the first time men are sent out deep into our solar system.

But long before their destination is reached, things begin to go horribly, inexplicably wrong...

Arthur C. Clarke has been the presiding genius of science fiction for almost fifty years. His works include the ground-breaking and profound Childhood's End, Rendezvous with Rama and Expedition To Earth. Written when landing on the moon was still a dream, made into one of the most influential films of our century, brilliant, compulsive, prophetic, 2001: A Space Odyssey tackles the enduring theme of man's place in the universe. On the moon an enigma is uncovered. So great are the implications that, for the first time, men are sent out deep into the solar system. But, before they can reach their destination, things begin to go wrong, horribly wrong...

Written when landing on the moon was still a dream, made into one of the most influential films of our century, brilliant, compulsive, prophetic, 2001: A Space Odyssey tackles the enduring theme of man's place in the universe. Including a new Foreword by the author and a fascinating new introduction by Stephen Baxter, this special edition is an essential addition to every SF reader's collection.

One of the greatest-selling science fiction novels of our time, this classic book will grip you to the very end.

The Fountains of Paradise

This Hugo and Nebula Award-winning novel is reissued in this trade paperback edition. Vannemar Morgan's dream of linking Earth with the stars requires a 24,000-mile-high space elevator. But first he must solve a million technical, political, and economic problems while allaying the wrath of God. Includes a new introduction by the author.

Rendezvous with Rama

At first, only a few things are known about the celestial object that astronomers dub Rama. It is huge, weighing more than ten trillion tons. And it is hurtling through the solar system at an inconceivable speed. Then a space probe confirms the unthinkable: Rama is no natural object. It is, incredibly, an interstellar spacecraft. Space explorers and planet-bound scientists alike prepare for mankind's first encounter with alien intelligence. It will kindle their wildest dreams... and fan their darkest fears. For no one knows who the Ramans are or why they have come. And now the moment of rendezvous awaits just behind a Raman airlock door.

Childhood's End

The Overlords appeared suddenly over every city intellectually, technologically, and militarily superior to humankind. Benevolent, they made few demands: unify earth, eliminate poverty, and end war. With little rebellion, humankind agreed, and a golden age began.

But at what cost? With the advent of peace, man ceases to strive for creative greatness, and a malaise settles over the human race. To those who resist, it becomes evident that the Overlords have an agenda of their own. As civilization approaches the crossroads, will the Overlords spell the end for humankind . . . or the beginning?