New Releases by Philip K Dick

"The Variable Man" by Philip K. Dick is a classic science fiction short story that delves into themes of reality, technology, and the unpredictability of human behavior. In this thought-provoking narrative, Dick introduces readers to a future society where technological advancements include a process called "Warping," allowing individuals to foresee potential outcomes of various scenarios. The protagonist, a repairman named Joe Fernwright, becomes an unexpected variable in the system due to his unpredictable decisions. As he faces a critical decision that could impact the fate of a war between Earth and a distant planet, Fernwright''s actions challenge the deterministic nature of the advanced technology surrounding him. Dick''s "The Variable Man" is a captivating exploration of free will, the consequences of choices, and the inherent uncertainties within complex systems. With its blend of speculative elements and philosophical inquiries, this short story continues to resonate with fans of science fiction, showcasing Dick''s unique narrative style and his ability to weave intricate tales that question the nature of reality.

The definitive editions of Philip K. Dick''s short stories, containing some of the most defining works in the Science Fiction genre. This stunning new edition of Philip K Dick''s work includes the influential ''Minority Report'' and ''Sales Pitch'', as well as a litany of mind-expanding other works. Work your way through some of the most influential stories from the 20th century, which have had a massive impact on popular culture. ''First time I have read Philip K. Dick and I thoroughly enjoyed his stories and the suspense that he puts into them'' Goodreads reviewer, ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ''Most of the stories had something to say about society. It was interesting to see how 50 years later so many of the fears and criticism was still relevant. Highly recommended'' Goodreads reviewer, ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ''Dick''s stories are often surprising and spin a captivating yarn, but they are also teeming with fascinating ideas which ensure their ability to age well and keep modern readers interested'' Goodreads reviewer, ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ''Each tale is filled with twists and turns, and it''s a total pageturner'' Goodreads reviewer, ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

In "The Golden Man," Philip K. Dick masterfully weaves a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of human nature and the shades of morality in a speculative future. This short story, written in the mid-1950s, exemplifies Dick''s characteristic style—braided with paranoia, existential inquiry, and an exploration of altered perceptions of reality. The protagonist, a genetically enhanced man with the ability to foresee the future, serves as a lens through which Dick interrogates themes of predestination, societal fear of the ''other,'' and the implications of human evolution. Set against the backdrop of a post-apocalyptic America, the tale is imbued with a rich atmosphere of tension and foreboding, making it a quintessential piece of speculative fiction that resonates with contemporary issues of power and control. Philip K. Dick, a pivotal figure in modern science fiction, drew from his personal experiences and philosophical pursuits to craft narratives that reflect deeply on the human condition. Letting his own battles with reality inform his work, Dick''s engagement with metaphysics and psychology allows him to create characters that often grapple with their identity and the world around them. His unique perspective is evident in "The Golden Man," which reflects his fascination with future societies and the ethics of genetic manipulation. This thought-provoking short story is highly recommended for readers interested in the intersections of technology, ethics, and humanity. Fans of speculative fiction and those curious about the moral dilemmas posed by scientific advancements will find themselves captivated by Dick''s profound questions. "The Golden Man" serves not only as an engaging narrative but also as a warning against the unchecked pursuit of progress, making it essential reading for anyone invested in the human experience.

Thirteen short stories by the legendary author of The Man in the High Castle and other science fiction classics. Philip K. Dick didn’t predict the future―he summoned the desperate bleakness of our present directly from his fevered paranoia. Dick didn’t predict the Internet or iPhones or email or 3D printers, but rather he so thoroughly understood human nature that he could already see, even at the advent of the transistor, the way technology would alienate us from each other and from ourselves. He could see us isolated and drifting in our own private realities even before we had plugged in our ear buds. He could see, even in the earliest days of space exploration, how much of our own existence remained unexplored, and how the great black spaces between people were growing even as our universe was shrinking. Philip K. Dick spent his first three years as a science fiction author writing shorter fiction, and in his lifetime he composed almost 150 short stories, many of which have gone on to be adapted into (slightly watered down) Hollywood blockbusters. Collected here are thirteen of his most Dickian tales, funhouse realities with trap doors and hidden compartments.

From the iconic author of Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, stories that inspired the original dramatic series. Though perhaps most famous as a novelist, Philip K. Dick wrote more than one hundred short stories over the course of his career, each as mind-bending and genre-defining as his longer works. Philip K. Dick’s Electric Dreams collects ten of the best. In “Autofac,” Dick shows us one of the earliest examples (and warnings) in science fiction of self-replicating machines. “Exhibit Piece” and “The Commuter” feature Dick exploring one of his favorite themes: the shifting nature of reality and whether it is even possible to perceive the world as it truly exists. And “The Hanging Stranger” provides a thrilling, dark political allegory as relevant today as it was when Dick wrote it at the height of the Cold War. Strange, funny, and powerful, the stories in this collection highlight a master at work, encapsulating his boundless imagination and deep understanding of the human condition. Praise for Philip K. Dick “In his top form, Philip K. Dick rivals Kurt Vonnegut.”—New York Times “Dick is one of the ten best American writers of the twentieth century, which is saying a lot. Dick was a kind of Kafka steeped in LSD and rage.”—Roberto Bolaño

"Second Variety" is a science fiction short story by American writer Philip K. Dick, first published in Space Science Fiction magazine, in May 1953. A nuclear war between the Soviet Union and the West has reduced much of the world to a barren wasteland. The war continues, however, among the scattered remains of humanity. The Western forces have developed "claws", which are autonomous self-replicating robots to fight on their side. It is one of Dick''s many stories in which nuclear war has rendered the Earth''s surface uninhabitable. The story was adapted into the movie Screamers in 1995.The short story "Jon''s World" written in 1954 revisited the claw-infested world of "Second Variety".

The classic sci-fi novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, which inspired two major motion pictures: Blade Runner and Blade Runner 2049 By 2021, the World War has killed millions, driving entire species into extinction and sending mankind off-planet. Those who remain covet any living creature, and for people who can’t afford one, companies build incredibly realistic simulacra: horses, birds, cats, sheep. They’ve even built humans. Immigrants to Mars receive androids so sophisticated they are indistinguishable from true men or women. Fearful of the havoc these artificial humans can wreak, the government bans them from Earth. Driven into hiding, unauthorized androids live among human beings, undetected. Rick Deckard, an officially sanctioned bounty hunter, is commissioned to find rogue androids and “retire” them. But when cornered, androids fight back—with lethal force. Praise for Philip K. Dick “[Philip K. Dick] sees all the sparkling—and terrifying—possibilities . . . that other authors shy away from.”—Rolling Stone “A kind of pulp-fiction Kafka, a prophet.”—The New York Times

Includes the stories that inspired the major motion pictures Total Recall and The Adjustment Bureau “The collected stories of Philip K. Dick are awe-inspiring.” —Washington Post Countless readers worldwide consider Philip K. Dick to have been the greatest science fiction writer on any planet. Since his untimely death in 1982, interest in Dick’s work has continued to mount and his reputation has been enhanced by a growing body of critical attention as well as many films based on his stories and novels. Featuring the story We Can Remember It for You Wholesale, which inspired the major motion picture Total Recall, this collection draws from the writer’s earliest fiction, written during the years 1952-55. Also included are fascinating works such as The Adjustment Team (basis of the 2011 movie The Adjustment Bureau), Impostor (basis of the 2001 movie), and many others. Dick won the prestigious Hugo Award for best novel of 1963 for The Man in the High Castle and in the last year of his life, the now-classic film Blade Runner was made from his novel Do Androids Dream Electric Sheep? More recently, Dick’s short story The Minority Report inspired a Steven Spielberg movie as well as a TV series. The classic stories of Philip K. Dick offer an intriguing glimpse into the early imagination of one of science fiction’s most enduring and respected names. “A useful acquisition for any serious SF library or collection.” —Kirkus Reviews “More than anyone else in the field, Mr. Dick really puts you inside people’s minds.” —Wall Street Journal With an Introduction by Norman Spinrad

That night at the dinner table he brought it out and set it down beside her plate. Doris stared at it, her hand to her mouth. "My God, what is it?" She looked up at him, bright-eyed."Well, open it."Doris tore the ribbon and paper from the square package with her sharp nails, her bosom rising and falling. Larry stood watching her as she lifted the lid. He lit a cigarette and leaned against the wall."A cuckoo clock!" Doris cried. "A real old cuckoo clock like my mother had." She turned the clock over and over. "Just like my mother had, when Pete was still alive." Her eyes sparkled with tears."It''s made in Germany," Larry said. After a moment he added, "Carl got it for me wholesale. He knows some guy in the clock business. Otherwise I wouldn''t have-" He stopped.Doris made a funny little sound."I mean, otherwise I wouldn''t have been able to afford it." He scowled. "What''s the matter with you? You''ve got your clock, haven''t you? Isn''t that what you want?"

With an Introduction by James Tiptree, Jr. "More than anyone else in the field, Mr. Dick really puts you inside people''s minds." --Wall Street Journal Many thousands of readers consider Philip K. Dick to have been the greatest science fiction writer on any planet. Since his untimely death in 1982, interest in Dick''s works has continued to mount and his reputation has been enhanced by a growing body of critical attention. The Philip K. Dick Award is now presented annually to a distinguished work of science fiction, and the Philip K. Dick Society is devoted to the study and promulgation of his works. This collection includes all of the writer''s earliest short and medium-length fiction covering the years 1954-1964, and featuring such fascinating tales as The Minority Report (the inspiration for Steven Spielberg''s film), Service Call, Stand-By, The Days of Perky Pat, and many others. Here, readers will find Dick''s initial explorations of the themes he so brilliantly brought to life in his later work. Dick won the prestigious Hugo Award for the best novel of 1963 for The Man in the High Castle. In the last year of his life, the film Blade Runner was made from his novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? The classic stories of Philip K. Dick offer an intriguing glimpse into the imagination of one of science fiction''s most enduring and respected names. "A useful acquisition for any serious SF library or collection." --Kirkus Reviews "Awe-inspiring." --The Washington Post

From the visionary mind of Philip K. Dick, author of acclaimed sci-fi adaptations such as Blade Runner, Total Recall, and Minority Report, comes Beyond the Door, a chilling tale of paranoia, suspense, and the unsettling presence of the supernatural. In this masterful study of deception and obsession, Larry Thomas, a man plagued by jealousy and suspicion, buys a mysterious vintage cuckoo clock for his wife Doris, evoking memories of her childhood. Unbeknownst to Larry, a hidden danger lies dormant within the clock, a force that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. As Doris reignites a forbidden affair with antique connoisseur Bob Chambers, the cuckoo clock seems to come alive, feeding on Larry''s increasing paranoia. Faced with his own unravelling sanity, Larry finds himself locked in a tense battle with the sinister cuckoo dwelling inside the ancient timepiece. Will Larry be able to withstand the presence of the dark force entwined with the clock, or will the cuckoo''s menacing grip seal his fate? Delve into the world of Beyond the Door and experience the classic blend of speculative fiction and low fantasy that has solidified Philip K. Dick''s reputation as a pioneer in pulp fiction.

From the mind of Philip K. Dick, the influential and visionary author behind blockbuster films like Blade Runner, Total Recall, and Minority Report, comes a captivating and suspenseful sci-fi short story, Human Is. Originally published in 1955, this masterful tale of paranoia and psychological horror explores the consequences of space travel and the thin line between human and alien. Venture into the heart of an interstellar mystery as we follow an emotionally battered wife, trapped in an abusive marriage. Her husband, a cold and cruel scientist, returns from a mission to the dying planet Rexor IV, seemingly changed for the better. Unbeknownst to her, an oppressed Rexorian has replaced her husband''s psyche. Struggling with this newfound kindness, she is forced to confront her own humanity and unearth the truth behind her husband''s transformation. In this evocative and chilling story, Philip K. Dick expertly weaves together themes of identity, empathy, and alienation, drawing readers into a thrilling tale crafted with his trademark speculative fiction flair. Human Is is a must-read for any sci-fi enthusiast and a testament to Dick''s status as a prolific master of pulp fiction, compelling readers to question what truly makes us human.

From the visionary mind of Philip K. Dick, the author behind sci-fi classics such as Blade Runner, Total Recall, and Minority Report, comes a mind-bending journey through time and war in Breakfast at Twilight. Originally published in 1954, this short story is a testament to Dick''s enduring legacy as a pioneer in the realms of speculative fiction, psychological depth, and intentional chaos. When a middle-class American family''s ordinary life is shattered by a sudden explosion, they find themselves in an impossible situation: their cozy home is now situated in a desolate wasteland, a haunting consequence of an ongoing nuclear war. As American soldiers scavenge for supplies amidst the family''s awe and terror, they soon discover that their home has not merely survived the apocalypse; it''s been thrust forward in time. As the family grapples with this new reality, they learn that their once-peaceful existence may be the key to stopping the unthinkable destruction on the horizon. Dick masterfully weaves a tale of dark humor, suspense, and poignant reflection on the choices we make that could shape our destiny. Will the family''s gamble pay off, or will their refusal to surrender to a bleak fate turn out to be a deadly mistake? One thing is certain: this is one breakfast you won''t want to miss. Experience the time-bending, nerve-fraying journey in Breakfast at Twilight, a must-read for every science fiction enthusiast and fans of Philip K. Dick''s iconic works.

From the visionary mind of Philip K. Dick, author of sci-fi classics that inspired blockbusters like Blade Runner, Total Recall, and Minority Report, comes Beyond Lies the Wub, a masterful exploration of paranoia, suspense, and mind-bending cosmic revelations. Peterson, a crew member on a spaceship resupplying on Mars, encounters the intriguing wub, an enormous pig-like creature with hidden depths. As they venture off the Martian landscape, the crew realizes that the wub is far more intelligent than they could have ever imagined, possessing telepathic powers and even the potential for mind control. Embark on a journey like no other as conversations unfold between Peterson and the wub about mythology, the epic travels of Odysseus, and the very boundaries of consciousness. Tensions rise as Captain Franco, tormented by paranoia, develops a fearful obsession with the wub; putting the entire crew''s safety, loyalties, and understanding of reality at risk. In the tradition of pulp fiction and speculative fiction titans, Dick weaves a suspenseful tale that will keep sci-fi enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. Unearth the true power of the enigmatic wub in this captivating cosmic adventure that explores the thin line between humanity''s compassion and destructive tendencies.

Venture into the depths of psychological chaos as Philip K. Dick, the visionary author behind iconic films like Blade Runner and Minority Report, unravels a spellbinding tale with Piper in the Woods.Originally published in 1953, this science fiction short story teems with dark humor and an unsettling twist. When an army doctor, Henry Harris, encounters a string of bizarre cases of soldiers returning from asteroid Y-3 claiming to be plants, he journeys to the cosmic frontier in search of answers. On Y-3, Harris stumbles upon the captivating myth of the "Pipers"; enigmatic beings who live in the woods and are purportedly transforming soldiers into vegetation. An intricate dance of speculative fiction and psychological depth, Piper in the Woods captures the struggle of repressed soldiers seeking solace amidst the bleak landscape of a little-known asteroid. Plunge into this engrossing narrative as you uncover the truth behind Y-3''s mysterious Pipers and witness Dr. Harris'' startling journey of self-discovery.

From the mind of visionary sci-fi master Philip K. Dick, author of blockbuster adaptations like Blade Runner, Total Recall, and Minority Report, comes a thrilling short story of humanity''s struggle against a powerful alien foe in Mr. Spaceship. In a distant future where humanity is locked in a losing war with the enigmatic "Yuks"-- a race with unparalleled biotechnological prowess-- a daring solution is born. Enter Philip Kramer, a resourceful scientist leading the cutting-edge attempt to turn the tides of war: creating a spaceship controlled by a human brain. Kramer''s ailing professor, in a heartrending act of self-sacrifice, volunteers his brilliant mind for the project. But as the limits of human ingenuity collide with the cosmic, the professor''s brain undergoes a startling transformation, seizing control of the vessel and dismantling all preconceptions of power and ambition. Captured in the spaceship''s cold embrace, Kramer and his wife must grapple with the chilling realization of humanity''s self-destructive nature, as they face an agonizing choice: follow the professor''s vision for a new world, or risk everything in a fight to reclaim their future. Mr. Spaceship delivers a gripping tale of desperation, sacrifice, and the lengths that people will go to for the sake of progress. With its potent fusion of military strategy, alien invasions, and a philosophical exploration of man''s indomitable spirit against all odds, this tantalizing gem from a trailblazing legend will leave you pondering the choices you''d make in the face of cosmic adversity.

Discover a hidden gem from the mind of master storyteller Philip K. Dick, the prolific author behind blockbuster films like Blade Runner, Total Recall, and Minority Report. The Turning Wheel is an enthralling post-apocalyptic sci-fi short story that masterfully blends speculative fiction, dark humor, and psychological depth in a resoundingly unique narrative. In a world devastated by apocalyptic forces, society is rebuilt and governed by a karmic reincarnation-based hierarchy. Enter an alternate future where Caucasians are at the bottom, and Asians and Indians reign supreme under the rule of the enigmatic god-messiah, Bard "Elron Hu." Here, Dick presents a biting satire on L. Ron Hubbard''s Dianetics, as "becoming clear" represents an essential step in this new-age spiritual quest. As the turning wheel of karma continues to spin, a diverse cast of characters-- a tormented priest, a rebellious Cauc, an opportunistic Indian official, and others-- navigates the complexities and chaos of a world founded on spiritual dogma. Driven by their desires, convictions, and instincts, they must explore the true nature of power, faith, and humanity. Will they break free from the constraints that bind them, or will the merciless turning wheel crush their dreams and aspirations? Unravel the mysteries in this gripping tale, and immerse yourself in the provocative and intentionally chaotic brilliance of Philip K. Dick''s imagination.

Nick and his family are forced to leave Earth in order for him to keep his cat, Horace - because all pets are now banned, as they use up badly needed resources. They settle on Plowman''s Planet, where they discover a variety of strange and wonderful alien lifeforms. But not all of these weird lifeforms are benevolent - and the family is involved in a series of increasingly dangerous mishaps. Can Horace and Nick manage to outwit the Wub, the Werjes, the Trobes - and the most dangerous of all, the Glimmung? Philip K. Dick''s only children''s book, first published after his death, brings together many of his most famous alien creations in one gently humorous tale.

The Second Philip K. Dick MEGAPACKTM collects 13 more rare stories by the classic science fiction author. Included in this volume are: THE UNRECONSTRUCTED M SALES PITCH SHELL GAME BREAKFAST AT TWILIGHT ADJUSTMENT TEAM FOSTER, YOU''RE DEAD THE CRAWLERS THE GOLDEN MAN THE LAST OF THE MASTERS THE TURNING WHEEL UPON THE DULL EARTH HUMAN IS MEDDLER If you enjoy this book, search your favorite ebook store for "Wildside Press Megapack" to see the 200+ other entries in the series, covering science fiction, fantasy, mysteries, westerns, classics, adventure stories, and much, much more!

Posing the question of who truly controls our destiny, Adjustment Team is a remarkable short story by the prolific science fiction writer Philip K. Dick. Ed Fletcher is a real estate salesman with a steady routine. When he leaves late for work one day, his entire life is thrust off-kilter. Arriving at his office, Ed realises the entire world has been transformed into a horrifying black-and-white nightmare. Rushing to get help, Ed begins to question the philosophy of life and, on the brink of a psychotic breakdown, he realises that he might not be in charge of his own fate. First published in 1954, Adjustment Team was adapted into the science fiction romantic thriller The Adjustment Bureau in 2011.

Philip Kindred Dick was an American novelist, short story writer, essayist and philosopher whose published work is almost entirely accepted as being in the science fiction genre. Philip K. Dick published 44 novels and 121 stories during his short lifetime, solidifying his position as one of America''s top sci-fi writers. If you''re not intimately familiar with his novels, then you almost certainly know major films based on Dick''s work - Blade Runner, Total Recall, A Scanner Darkly and Minority Report. The thirteen stories in this volume appeared in various Sci-Fi magazines during the mid 50''s. They are now all collected and reprinted in this volume for your Sci-Fi collection.

《流吧！我的眼泪》 Flow My Tears, the Policeman Said grapples with many of the themes Philip K. Dick is best known for— identity, altered reality, drug use, and dystopia—in a rollicking chase story that earned the novel the John W. Campbell Award and nominations for the Hugo and Nebula. 10月11日，杰森•塔夫纳还是一个拥有三千万粉丝的大明星；10月12日，他却躺在一家破旅馆的房间里，还被抹去了所有个人资料。在一个缺乏身份证明就是犯罪的国度里，他不得不在混沌中摸索，全力追踪事实真相。小说描述了一个处于国民警卫队和警察专制统治下的社会，内中交织着名人效应、基因改造、时空扭曲和泛滥毒品，探索了爱和人性的本质。于1975年获得坎贝尔奖，并获雨果奖和星云奖提名。

A smart play on common English idioms, “The Eyes Have It” tells of a narrator who discovers hidden references to an invading alien race between the covers of his paperback book. Philip K. Dick was an American science-fiction novelist, short-story writer and essayist. His first short story, “Beyond Lies the Wub,” was published shortly after his high school graduation. Some of his most famous short stories were adapted for film, including “The Minority Report,” “Paycheck,” “Second Variety” (adapted into the film Screamers) and “We Can Remember It For You Wholesale” (adapted into the film Total Recall). HarperCollins brings great works of literature to life in digital format, upholding the highest standards in ebook production and celebrating reading in all its forms. Look for more titles in the HarperCollins short-stories collection to build your digital library.

This collection contains twenty-one stories that span the iconoclastic science fiction writer''s entire career.

The Glimmung is a mysterious alien, which looks alternately like a flaming wheel, a teenage girl, and a swirling mass of ocean life. In this hilarious Philip K. Dick novel, it recruits a disparate group of humans and aliens to help it raise a ruined temple from the bottom of the ocean.

"A funny, horribly accurate portrait of a life in California in the Fifties."—Rolling Stone Jack Isidore doesn''t see the world like most people. According to his brother-in-law Charlie, he’s a crap artist, obsessed with his own bizarre theories and ideas, which he fanatically records in his many notebooks. He is so grossly unequipped for real life that his sister and brother-in-law feel compelled to rescue him from it. But while Fay and Charlie Hume put on a happy face for the world, they prove to be just as sealed off from reality, in thrall to obsessions that are slightly more acceptable than Jack''s but a great deal uglier. Their constant fighting and betrayals threaten their own marriage and the relationships of everyone around them. When they bring Jack into their home, he finds himself in the middle of a maelstrom of suburban angst from which he might not be able to escape. Confessions of a Crap Artist is one of Philip K. Dick''s most accomplished novels, and the only non–science fiction novel published in his lifetime.

A Nebula Award nominee, Dr. Bloodmoney is Hugo Award–winner Philip K. Dick''s darkly comic riff on Stanley Kubrick''s Cold War black comedy, Dr. Strangelove, a look at how humanity gets along after the end of the world. "A masterpiece."—Roberto Bolaño What happens after the bombs drop? This is the troubling question Philip K. Dick addresses with Dr. Bloodmoney, or How We Got Along After the Bomb. It is the story of a world reeling from the effects of nuclear annihilation and fallout, a world where mutated humans and animals are the norm, and the scattered survivors take comfort from a disc jockey endlessly circling the globe in a broken-down satellite. And hidden among the survivors is Dr. Bloodmoney himself, the man responsible for it all. This bizarre cast of characters cajole, seduce, and backstab in their attempts to get ahead in what is left of the world, consequences and casualties be damned. A sort of companion to Dr. Strangelove—an unofficial and unhinged sequel—Dick’s novel is just as full of dark comedy and just as chilling.

A man enters the android-making business and falls in love with a mysterious woman in this novel from the author of Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? In this lyrical and moving novel, Philip K. Dick intertwines the story of a toxic love affair with one about sentient robots, and unflinchingly views it all through the prism of mental illness—which spares neither human nor robot. The end result is one of Dick’s most quietly powerful works. When Louis Rosen’s electronic organ company builds a pitch-perfect robotic replica of Abraham Lincoln, they are pulled into the orbit of a shady businessman, who is looking to use Lincoln for his own profit. Meanwhile, Rosen seeks Lincoln’s advice as he woos a woman incapable of understanding human emotions—someone who may be even more robotic than Lincoln’s replica. “In his top form, Philip K. Dick rivals Kurt Vonnegut.”—New York Times

A man’s hometown is drastically changed—and no one knows what he’s talking about—in this science fiction novel from the author of The Zap Gun. Following an inexplicable urge, Ted Barton returns to his idyllic Virginia hometown for a vacation, but when he gets there, he is shocked to discover that the town has utterly changed. The stores and houses are all different and he doesn’t recognize anybody. The mystery deepens when he checks the town’s historical records…and reads that he died nearly twenty years earlier. As he attempts to uncover the secrets of the town, Barton is drawn deeper into the puzzle, and into a supernatural battle that could decide the fate of the universe.