Harry Harrison

Easton Press Harry Harrison books

Stars and Stripes Forever - Signed First Edition of Science Fiction - 1998

Author Harry Harrison

Harry Harrison was an American science fiction writer, born on March 12, 1925, in Stamford, Connecticut, and passed away on August 15, 2012, in Brighton, England. He was a prolific and influential author known for his imaginative and humorous approach to science fiction. Harrison's early life was marked by his service in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. After the war, he attended Hunter College in New York City, where he studied art and eventually found his way into the world of illustration and writing. His journey into science fiction began with the publication of his first novel, Deathworld, in 1960.

One of Harrison's most iconic and enduring contributions to science fiction literature is the creation of the character James Bolivar DiGriz, better known as Slippery Jim or the Stainless Steel Rat. This series, starting with The Stainless Steel Rat in 1961, showcased Harrison's talent for blending adventure, satire, and social commentary. The Stainless Steel Rat became a beloved figure in the science fiction community and a symbol of Harrison's unique storytelling style. In addition to The Stainless Steel Rat series, Harrison authored numerous other novels and short stories, exploring a wide range of themes and settings within the science fiction genre. Notable works include the Deathworld trilogy, the Bill, the Galactic Hero series, and the To the Stars trilogy.

Beyond his contributions to literature, Harry Harrison was actively involved in science fiction fandom and served as the president of the Science Fiction Writers of America (SFWA) from 1979 to 1980. He also collaborated with other prominent science fiction authors, including co-writing novels with Brian Aldiss and other notable figures.

Harrison's writing style was characterized by a sharp wit, social satire, and a keen sense of humor, which set his work apart in the science fiction landscape. His ability to blend entertaining narratives with thoughtful commentary on societal issues earned him a dedicated readership and secured his place as a significant figure in the history of science fiction. Harry Harrison's influence extended beyond his writing, as his work inspired filmmakers, artists, and fellow authors. His impact on the genre remains enduring, and his legacy continues to be celebrated by fans and scholars of science fiction.

Stars and Stripes Forever

On November 8, 1861, a U.S. navy warship stopped a British packet and seized two Confederate emissaries on their way to England to seek backing for their cause. England responded with rage, calling for a war of vengeance. The looming crisis was defused by the peace-minded Prince Albert. But imagine how Albert's absence during this critical moment might have changed everything. For lacking Albert's calm voice of reason, Britain now seizes the opportunity to attack and conquer a crippled, war-torn America.

Ulysses S. Grant is poised for an attack that could smash open the South's defenses. In Washington, Abraham Lincoln sees a first glimmer of hope that this bloody war might soon end. But then disaster strikes: English troops have invaded from Canada. With most of the Northern troops withdrawn to fight the new enemy, General William Tecumseh Sherman and his weakened army stand alone against the Confederates. Can a divided, bloodied America defeat England, or will the United States cease to exist for all time?