Astounding Stories of Super-Science January 1930

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

41481

Title

Astounding Stories of Super-Science January 1930

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Astounding Stories of Super-Science presents a thrilling anthology of speculative fiction from 1930, featuring tales of giant beetles, fourth-dimensional adventures, and invisible killers. With vivid science fiction concepts and dramatic narratives by leading writers of the era, this collection anticipates future technologies while delivering clean, exciting entertainment for the adventurous reader.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in January 1930, *Astounding Stories of Super-Science* promises narratives that anticipate tomorrow's scientific achievements. The issue opens with an introduction by the editor, who defines 'astounding' stories as those predicting future technologies, ranging from moon travel to invisibility, noting that what seems impossible today becomes commonplace tomorrow. The collection features clean, vivid storytelling by renowned authors including Ray Cummings, Murray Leinster, and Victor Rousseau. The lead story, "The Beetle Horde" by Victor Rousseau, follows explorers Dodd and Tommy Travers at the South Pole. They discover a fossilized, man-sized beetle shell, hinting at a mad scientist's plan to release a horde of such creatures. The narrative also includes a fantasy tale involving Prince Derek, who uses a ray weapon to defeat crimson nobles and claim his throne, only to face a new threat from the villainous Rohbar, who holds a girl hostage. Another major feature, "Invisible Death" by Anthony Pelcher, investigates a series of murders committed by a maniac using a machine that renders objects invisible through high-frequency vibration. Detectives uncover that the killer's accomplice is actually a set of identical triplets controlled by hypnosis, allowing her to be in three places at once. The issue also features "The Cave of Horror," "Phantoms of Reality," "The Stolen Mind," "Compensation," and "Tanks," each exploring themes of scientific advancement, human nature, and the unknown. The collection emphasizes dramatic adventure and scientific speculation, catering to readers eager for tales that blend rigorous science with thrilling fantasy. The stories collectively envision a future where invisibility, teleportation, and advanced weaponry reshape society, reflecting the era's fascination with the potential of super-science.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Science Fiction