James E. Gunn

Easton Press James Gunn books

Kampus - Masterpieces of Science Fiction - 1986
The Listeners - Masterpieces of Science Fiction - 1991
Millennium Blues - Signed First Edition of Science Fiction - 2001
Gift From The Stars - Signed First Editions of Science Fiction - 2005

Author James Gunn

James E. Gunn, born on July 12, 1923, is an American science fiction writer, editor, scholar, and professor, renowned for his significant contributions to the genre. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Gunn developed a passion for science fiction at a young age, inspired by the works of writers such as H.G. Wells and Jules Verne. Gunn's academic journey led him to the University of Kansas, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Journalism in 1947 and a Master of Arts in English in 1951. He later completed a Doctor of Arts in 1957, becoming one of the early scholars to receive a doctorate with a dissertation on science fiction.

In addition to his academic pursuits, James E. Gunn made a mark as a science fiction author. He penned numerous novels and short stories, with one of his notable works being The Immortals (1962). The novel explores themes of immortality and the consequences of tampering with the natural order, showcasing Gunn's ability to delve into thought-provoking speculative fiction. Gunn's influence extends beyond his writing; he played a crucial role in establishing science fiction as a legitimate field of study. In 1969, he founded the Center for the Study of Science Fiction at the University of Kansas, where he served as a professor. The Center offers educational programs, conferences, and resources dedicated to the academic exploration of science fiction.

As an editor, Gunn curated anthologies and edited The Road to Science Fiction series, which traced the development of science fiction literature over time. His commitment to promoting and preserving the genre's rich history has left an enduring impact on the academic and literary aspects of science fiction.

James E. Gunn received numerous accolades for his contributions, including the Damon Knight Memorial Grand Master Award from the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America in 2007. Throughout his career, Gunn's passion for science fiction, both as a literary form and as an academic discipline, has helped shape and elevate the genre, earning him recognition as a distinguished figure in the world of speculative fiction.

Kampus

In the near future, on America's campuses, professors hawk their courses, dozens of political groups compete in violence and computer-dating means having sex with a computer. It may not be all grind, but isn't it fun and games - as one senior finds out when he kidnaps his favorite professor and kills him for his knowledge.

You are looking at the college of tomorrow where yesterday's radicals are the Establishment. And tomorrow's students invent the ultimate revolution.

The Listeners

A message from intelligent life in outer space threatens the future of the earth and its inhabitants.

A classic of science fiction, this book predicted and inspired the creation of the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) the organization dedicated to the search for extraterrestrial life. A tale of contact with alien life hailed by leaders of SETI organizations and today's leading science fiction authors as hugely influential, the story appeals to both science fiction readers and the hundreds of thousands of members of various SETI organizations.

After fifty-one long years of patient waiting, the message has finally arrived. They have dedicated their lives to trying to decipher the eerie silence that resounds from space and now there is finally a sound after decades of quiet. In the beginning there is a hail of celebration the Project has finally produced results but then the questions begin.
What does the message mean? Could it be 'We come in peace' or 'Get ready for world domination'? The message baffles Earth. Only one man has the power to make the decision and it could mean intergalactic warfare if he makes the wrong choice. Director MacDonald holds in his hands the fate of Earth, the universe and the Project, which is dedicated to answering questions that have plagued humanity for centuries. Will he make the correct choice?

Millennium Blues

Wow, the millennium is off to a great start, the notorious Y2K bug was no problem, and the world didn't end; time to take a break and relax Well, not exactly. The millennium didn't really get underway until January 1, 2001. You thought you were safe? Think again! Something much, MUCH, MUCH worse is ahead. The new millennium will bring nothing but disaster and destruction. As six unique people rush feverishly to resolve catastrophes both personal and otherwise, they cannot ignore the loudly ticking clock that will bring The End of The World. And this time its no psychic premonition; it s more real than you've ever dreamed.

Gift From The Stars

The age-old question about alien existence and human contact is explored in a new way in this collection of six novellas, previously anthologized in Analog magazine. When disillusioned aerospace engineer Adrian Mast buys a book at a remainder sale, the last things he expects to find in its appendix are alien spacecraft designs. With the help of the bookstore owner, Adrian tracks down the author only to find him in a mental institution anguishing over the intentions of the aliens who sent the designs to him. By bluffing a bureaucrat intent on thwarting their progress, the two friends continue their quest for the stars and go ahead with the spacecraft designs. Having successfully launched their ship 15 years later, the questions that remain What were the intentions of the aliens? and Is mankind ready to face what's out there?