Currently, I’m reading The Sands of Mars which was published in 1951, one year before I was born. Arthur C. Clarke qualifies, at least to me, as one of the founding fathers of present-day science fiction, present day being from the 1950’s through the 21^st century.

This science fiction classic is the story of the first science fiction author invited on a trip to Mars. His published books about the red planet were released long before anyone had ever been there and revolve around not only how wrong he was about that world, but how much he came to love it.

The plot is rife with political intrigue, includes a thin line of young romance, and a true testimony of man’s fortitude and determination to succeed no matter how difficult the task may be. The Sands of Mars is a reminder that it’s not a matter of boldly going where nobody’s ever been, so much as learning from previous innovators about what we should do when we get there.

The book was written in a more innocent time and reflects the era’s differences when compared with today. However, his Odyssey books are as timeless today as they were when he wrote them. I would recommend his work to everyone, knowing more people will like it than not.  I haven’t yet read all his books, but the man’s catalog is extensive. Oh, and don’t worry about which one to pick, as I haven’t found a bad one yet. I’m willing to bet you won’t either.

Other books by Arthur C. Clarke that I’ve read include:

The Fountains of Paradise

The Nine Billion Names of God

The City and the Stars

The Sentinel

Childhood’s End

Rendezvous with Rama

The Hammer of God

Earthlight

Solitaire

www.solitaireparke.com