Leigh Brackett
2021-06-15
A CAEZIK Notable book. CAEZIK Notables is a series of speculative-fiction books marking important milestones in science fiction or fantasy. Each book published in the series has a new introduction highlighting the book's significance within the genre.
"Close to being a great work of science fiction."--New York Times
One of the original novels of post-nuclear holocaust America, The Long Tomorrow is considered by many to be one of the finest science fiction novels ever written on the subject. The story has inspired generations of new writers and is still as mesmerizing today as when it was originally written.
Len and Esau are young cousins living decades after a nuclear war has destroyed civilization as we know. The rulers of the post-war community have forbidden the existence of large towns and consider technology evil.
However, Len and Esau long for more than their simple agrarian existence. Rumors of mythical Bartorstown, perhaps the last city in existence, encourage the boys to embark on a journey of discovery and adventure that will call into question not only firmly held beliefs, but the boys' own personal convictions.
"She [Brackett] has created science-fiction to compare with serious mainstream literature."--New York Herald Tribune
Fritz Leiber's 'The Long Tomorrow' presents a post-apocalyptic world where technology is outlawed, challenging my usual preference for scientifically advanced settings. The novel's exploration of the conflict between technological progress and fundamentalist regression offered a fresh perspective, stimulating a thoughtful examination of the ethical implications of such dichotomies. Leiber's prose, though occasionally dense, was rewarding, making this a worthwhile deviation from my usual selections.
Leiber's The Long Tomorrow is a curious gem that stands apart from my usual picks with its post-apocalyptic setting where technology is banned. The novel's intricate world-building and the tension between tradition and progress offer a refreshing divergence from the high-tech narratives I often seek out. It's a thought-provoking read that challenges my usual biases, presenting a future where the past holds the key to survival. The characters' journeys through this rigid society are both compelling and poignant, making it a valuable addition to my speculative fiction collection.
