Dive into the fascinating world of "Amazing Tales 135", a collection of stories that explore the boundaries of science, society, and human emotion. This anthology weaves together tales of discovery, intrigue, and the unexpected turns life can take. In "A Matter of Size", Samuel Mines introduces us to Professor Hiram Dexter, a larger-than-life character whose adventures in academia are as grand as his stature. Dexter's world of science and romance collides with unexpected rivalry under the moonlit paths of his campus, offering a whimsical glimpse into the complexities of ambition and love. Transitioning from academia to a futuristic society, Joed Cahill's "The Pleasure Age" follows young Riley Ashton on his sixth birthday. Set in a world where children are hidden until this milestone, Riley's day is filled with thrilling revelations and a newfound understanding of family dynamics, capturing the essence of youth in an era of leisure. Returning to Samuel Mines' inventive storytelling, "Donkeys to Bald Pate" presents Jon Egan, a science reporter caught in the whirlwind of Professor Weedlemeyer's eccentric theories on animal intelligence. Amidst scientific chaos, Egan finds his heart drawn to the professor's captivating daughter, Myrtle, adding a layer of romantic intrigue. Larry Sternig's "Clutch of Morpheus" takes readers on a mysterious journey as Wayne Randall explores the secrets of Dr. Felder's enigmatic lab. The story unfolds with suspense and curiosity, inviting readers to ponder the thin line between dreams and reality. Finally, Stanley Whiteside's "Information Please" offers a comedic yet thought-provoking narrative. Joe Squeeb's encounter with a groundbreaking scientific marvel leads to unexpected career advancements, as narrated by former news agency insider Alfred Pennyfeather. This tale humorously examines the chaos that ensues when technology disrupts human ambition. Each story in "Amazing Tales 135" invites readers to explore unique worlds filled with ...
Samuel Mines, a luminary in the realm of science fiction and fantasy, carved a niche for himself during the mid-20th century, a period teeming with rapid technological advancements and burgeoning speculative fiction. Born in 1911, Mines was not just a writer but also an influential editor, most notably for "Startling Stories" and "Thrilling Wonder Stories ". His tenure as an editor in the 1950s is often credited with elevating the quality and sophistication of pulp magazines, steering them away from mere escapism towards more thought-provoking narratives. Mines was a visionary who championed revolutionary ideas, often exploring themes of space exploration, advanced technologies, and the ethical implications of scientific progress. His editorial choices and writings reflected a deep engagement with the cultural and scientific zeitgeist of his time, resonating with readers who were grappling with the dawn of the atomic age and the early stages of the Space Race. Controversially, Mines was known for pushing the boundaries of genre conventions, sometimes clashing with more conservative voices within the literary community. His advocacy for more complex character development and intricate plotting in science fiction narratives influenced a generation of writers, including luminaries like Philip K. Dick and Ursula K. Le Guin. Mines' legacy is one of innovation and daring, a testament to his belief in the power of speculative fiction to not only entertain but also to challenge and inspire. His contributions continue to be celebrated by modern readers and writers who see in his work a precursor to the rich, imaginative landscapes that define contemporary science fiction and fantasy.