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70 years of timeless stories. One essential collection.
A science-fiction classic from the master of the genre. Earth has become a Utopia, guided by mysterious Overlords from outer space. Their omnipotent presence has eradicated war and inequality, bringing justice and order to all. Despite their terrifying form, they live harmoniously amongst the humans for fifty years until, one night, a child dreams a strange dream and begins to develop remarkable powers. What this signals is more important than anyone could imagine: it reveals the true fate of humanity and the real powers behind the presence of the Overlords. Neither, it seems, have a secure place in the future . . . ‘A first-rate tour de force’ New York Times
About the author
Arthur C. Clarke was a British science-fiction author, inventor and futurist, most famous for the novel 2001: A Space Odyssey, written in collaboration with director Stanley Kubrick, a collaboration which also produced the film of the same name. He was the chairman of the British Interplanetary Society from 1947 to 1950 and again in 1953. Clarke emigrated to Sri Lanka in 1956 and lived there until his death in March 2008. He was knighted in 1998.
Summary
A special edition of Childhood’s End by Arthur C. Clarke reissued with a bright retro design to celebrate Pan’s 70th anniversary.
Earth has become a Utopia, guided by a strange unseen people from outer space whose staggering powers have eradicated war, cruelty, poverty and racial inequality. When the 'Overlords' finally reveal themselves, their horrific form makes little impression.
Then comes the sign that the Overlords have been waiting for. A child begins to dream strangely - and develops remarkable powers. Soon this happens to every child - and the truth of the Overlords' mission is finally revealed to the human race . . .
A classic of the science-fiction genre, Childhood's End is an intelligent, beautifully written exploration of what it means to be human from the inimitable Arthur C. Clarke.
Foreword
An all-time science fiction classic from the author of 2001: A Space Odyssey.
Additional text
I count myself among the millions who have been inspired and encouraged by Arthur C. Clarke's contributions to literature
