The Demolished Man Alfred Bester

The Demolished Man by Alfred Bester ***Winner of the inaugural Hugo Award in 1953 for best science fiction or fantasy fiction. *** After criticizing unrealistic science fiction, Carl Sagan in 1978 listed The Demolished Man as among stories "that are so tautly constructed, so rich in the accommodating details of an unfamiliar society that they sweep me along before I have even a chance to be critical". Overall Condition: VG/NF+ Published in 1953 by Shasta Publishers in Chicago. First edition, first printing as indicated by "first edition" statement on copyright page. In its original binding and dust jacket with correct $3.00 price on front flap. Octavo, 250 pp. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Alfred Bester (December 18, 1913 - September 30, 1987) was an American science fiction author; TV and radio screenwriter; magazine editor; and scriptwriter for comics. He is best remembered for his science fiction, including the novel The Demolished Man, winner of the inaugural Hugo Award in 1953. Science fiction author Harry Harrison wrote that "Alfred Bester was one of the handful of writers who invented modern science fiction". Shortly before his death, the Science Fiction Writers of America (SFWA) named Bester its ninth Grand Master; the award was presented posthumously in 1988. The Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame inducted him in 2001. ABOUT THE BOOK The Demolished Man, recipient of the first Hugo Award for best Science Fiction novel, is a police procedural that takes place in a future world in which telepathy is relatively common. Bester creates a harshly capitalistic, hierarchical and competitive social world that exists without deceit: a society in which the right person with some skill (or money) and curiosity can access your memories, secrets, fears and past misdeeds more swiftly than even you. CONDITION REPORT: VG/NF+ The book is in VERY GOOD collectible condition. Faded front board is a little loose, top stain a bit dusty, small water spot on front board, sun-faded spine, bumped and worn corners, text block clean and bright, former owner gift inscription dated 1953 on FFEP, with a few spots of soiling on FFEP. Light toning to endpaper gutters. DJ is NEAR FINE+ (most would say fine)- a very small spot and (hard to see) light crease on bottom of front flap else FINE. Remarkably clean, colorful and bright, no chips or tears.