Spider Robinson

 

Easton Press Spider Robinson books

Stardance - Masterpieces of Science Fiction (signed edition co-authored with Jeanne Robinson) - 1991
Starseed - Signed First Edition of Science Fiction (co-authored with Jeanne Robinson) - 1991
Starmind - Signed First Edition of Science Fiction (co-authored with Jeanne Robinson) - 1995
Lifehouse - Signed First Editions of Science Fiction - 1997
Callahan's Key - Signed First Editions of Science Fiction - 2000
Callahan's Con - Signed First Editions of Science Fiction - 2003
Very Bad Deaths - Signed First Editions of Science Fiction - 2004
Very Hard Choices - Signed First Editions of Science Fiction - 2008
 
 

Author Spider Robinson

Spider Robinson, born on November 24, 1948, in the Bronx, New York City, is a prolific American-born Canadian science fiction author known for his imaginative storytelling, wit, and exploration of themes such as love, humor, and the human condition. Robinson's early life was marked by a love for literature and a nomadic lifestyle, as his family moved frequently during his childhood. He attended Stony Brook University in New York but left before completing his degree, instead embarking on a journey of self-discovery and adventure. In the early 1970s, Robinson moved to Nova Scotia, Canada, where he met his future wife, Jeanne Robinson, a talented dancer and choreographer. The two formed a creative partnership and collaborated on numerous projects, blending Spider's storytelling with Jeanne's dance expertise.

Robinson gained widespread recognition with the publication of his first novel, Telempath (1976), the first installment in his Callahan's Crosstime Saloon series. The series, set in a quirky bar where patrons share stories and solve problems with wit and humor, became a cult classic and established Robinson as a master of humorous science fiction. Throughout his career, Robinson has authored numerous novels, short stories, and essays, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. His works often blend elements of science fiction, humor, and humanism, exploring themes such as empathy, compassion, and the power of storytelling to connect people across time and space.

In addition to his fiction writing, Robinson is also known for his collaborations with other authors, including his work completing the final novels in the Foundation series by Isaac Asimov. He has also edited several anthologies of science fiction and fantasy, showcasing the work of emerging and established writers.

Tragically, Jeanne Robinson was diagnosed with cancer in the early 2000s, a battle she fought with courage and grace until her passing in 2010. Her death deeply affected Spider, and he has spoken openly about the profound impact she had on his life and work. Despite personal challenges, Spider Robinson continues to write and inspire readers with his imaginative storytelling, wit, and wisdom. He remains a beloved figure in the science fiction community, admired for his creativity, humor, and unwavering commitment to the transformative power of literature.
 

 

Stardance

Stardance is a collaborative science fiction novel written by Spider Robinson and Jeanne Robinson, published in 1979. It marks the beginning of a unique partnership between Spider, known for his witty storytelling, and Jeanne, a talented dancer and choreographer.

The novel tells the story of Shara Drummond, a former Olympic gymnast who discovers a talent for "zero-gravity dancing" while working on a space station. This new form of artistic expression involves fluid movements in microgravity, allowing dancers to defy the constraints of Earth's gravity and create mesmerizing performances. As Shara explores the possibilities of zero-gravity dancing, she encounters a mysterious alien presence known as the "Folk," who communicate with humans through intricate patterns of light and sound. Through her interactions with the Folk, Shara gains insight into the nature of consciousness, creativity, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Stardance is celebrated for its innovative blend of science fiction and dance, as well as its exploration of themes such as communication, identity, and the pursuit of artistic expression. The novel received critical acclaim upon its release, winning the Hugo and Nebula Awards for Best Novella in 1977. The success of Stardance led to two sequels: Starseed (1991) and Starmind (1995), which further explore the intersection of dance and technology and delve deeper into the mysteries of the universe. Beyond its literary achievements, Stardance is also notable for its impact on the science fiction genre, inspiring readers and writers alike with its imaginative storytelling and visionary exploration of the human spirit. The novel's enduring popularity and influence cement its place as a classic of speculative fiction.


Starseed

Starseed is the sequel to Stardance written by Spider Robinson and Jeanne Robinson. Published in 1991, it continues the story of Shara Drummond, a former Olympic gymnast who discovers the art of zero-gravity dancing. In Starseed, Shara's journey takes her to the outer reaches of the solar system, where she encounters a mysterious alien artifact and confronts the challenges of interstellar travel. The novel explores themes of exploration, communication, and the search for meaning in a vast and enigmatic universe. Starseed builds upon the imaginative world-building and philosophical depth of its predecessor, captivating readers with its blend of science fiction and dance.


Starmind

Starmind is the third installment in the Stardance series, written by Spider Robinson and Jeanne Robinson. Published in 1995, the novel continues the story of Shara Drummond and her exploration of the universe through zero-gravity dancing. In Starmind, Shara encounters a powerful alien intelligence known as the Starmind, which offers her the opportunity to merge her consciousness with its vast network of interconnected minds. As Shara grapples with the implications of this extraordinary offer, she must confront questions of identity, ethics, and the nature of existence. Starmind is praised for its thought-provoking exploration of consciousness and its evocative portrayal of the wonders of the cosmos, further solidifying the Stardance series as a classic of science fiction literature.


Lifehouse

June Bellamy had gone for a walk in a park and came back with memories missing. She didn't know, but her partner could, because she'd told her answering machine about strange people in the park. Now June and Paul are on the run from insidious superhumans who can edit their memories and track them down no matter where or how well they hide. They are desperate but not nearly as desperate as their pursuers.


Callahan's Key

Callahan's Key, published in 2000, is a pivotal installment within Robinson's celebrated Callahan's series, renowned for its blend of science fiction, humor, and poignant human drama. In this narrative, Robinson revisits the beloved characters of Callahan's Crosstime Saloon, particularly focusing on the bar's proprietor, Jake Stonebender, and his wife, Zoey. Set against the backdrop of Key West, Florida, the story unfolds as Jake finds himself on a journey of self-discovery and redemption after encountering a mysterious stranger who reveals a shocking truth about his past. As Jake delves deeper into his own psyche and confronts the ghosts of his history, readers are treated to Robinson's trademark wit, thought-provoking insights, and heartfelt storytelling. Callahan's Key stands as a testament to Robinson's talent for crafting engaging narratives that seamlessly blend the fantastical with the deeply human, leaving a lasting impression on readers long after the final page is turned.


Callahan's Con

Callahan's Con takes readers on a rollicking ride through the eccentric world of Callahan's Crosstime Saloon, where every patron has a tale to tell and adventure awaits around every corner. When a charming con artist sets his sights on the unsuspecting regulars, it's up to the quirky cast of characters to band together and unravel the deception before it's too late. With its blend of wit, humor, and heart, Spider Robinson's Callahan's Con is a delightful romp that will leave readers laughing, cheering, and eagerly turning pages until the very end.


Very Bad Deaths

Very Bad Deaths is a science fiction novel that follows Russell Walker, a former telepathic law enforcement officer, haunted by his past and struggling with the consequences of his abilities. When he encounters a young girl named Heather who possesses similar psychic powers, he becomes embroiled in a mystery surrounding her family's dark secrets. As Russell and Heather delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover a sinister plot involving government experiments, psychic manipulation, and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. Faced with formidable adversaries and personal demons, Russell must confront his own inner turmoil while striving to protect Heather and uncover the truth behind the very bad deaths that plague their lives. Through Robinson's signature blend of gripping storytelling and thought-provoking themes, Very Bad Deaths explores the complexities of power, morality, and redemption in a world where the line between right and wrong is often blurred.


Very Hard Choices

Born from the vivid imagination of Spider Robinson, Very Hard Choices is a gripping tale that plunges readers into the depths of moral ambiguity and existential dilemmas. Set against the backdrop of Callahan's Crosstime Saloon, the narrative introduces us to Russell Walker, a former telepathic law enforcement officer haunted by his past and grappling with the consequences of his extraordinary abilities. As the story unfolds, Robinson intricately weaves together themes of redemption, personal responsibility, and the complexities of human relationships. When Russell encounters Heather, a troubled young woman with psychic talents akin to his own, he finds himself thrust into a perilous journey fraught with danger and intrigue.

As Russell and Heather navigate through a maze of government conspiracies, ethical quandaries, and personal demons, they are forced to confront the very essence of their being. Each decision they make carries weighty consequences, challenging their beliefs and reshaping their understanding of the world around them. Through Robinson's masterful storytelling, Very Hard Choices transcends the confines of traditional science fiction, offering readers a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. With its blend of wit, humor, and philosophical insight, the novel leaves an indelible impression on all who dare to venture into its pages, reminding us that sometimes the hardest choices are the ones that define us.



Comments