The Jewels Of Aptor
by Samuel R. Delany
Sphere, 1977

CONDITION:
Copy is tight and unmarked with mild wear, foxing inside covers. GOOD

ATTRIBUTES:
Mass market paperback.

DESCRIPTION:
Samuel R. Delany's debut novel, "The Jewels of Aptor," plunges readers into a post-atomic future, over 1500 years after a devastating nuclear war, where civilization has regressed to a more primitive state. The narrative follows Geo, a poet, and his companions on a perilous quest to the mysterious island of Aptor. Their mission is to rescue a kidnapped priestess of the goddess Argo from the clutches of the dark god Hama and retrieve powerful artifacts known as the jewels of Aptor. The story explores themes of power, sacrifice, and the intricate balance between life and death, as the characters confront mutants, ancient forces, and the blurring lines between science and the supernatural in a world where technology has become indistinguishable from magic.

Samuel R. Delany, born in 1942, is an acclaimed African American writer and literary critic, known for his imaginative science fiction that often delves into complex themes of sexuality, identity, and societal issues. He is recognized as one of the first successful African-American science fiction authors and one of the first openly gay science fiction writers. Delany's work is characterized by a rich linguistic style and a commitment to introspection, and he has received numerous awards for his contributions to literature, including induction into the New York State Writers Hall of Fame.

"The Jewels of Aptor" holds significant literary value as Delany's first published novel, written when he was around 19 years old. It showcases his early talent for crafting lyrical prose and groundbreaking characterizations, featuring a diverse cast that was progressive for its time. The novel is an early example of "Mythological Futurism," where advanced technology in a post-apocalyptic setting is perceived as magic, exploring the conflation of science and the supernatural. Collectors might find this book interesting as it represents the foundational work of a highly influential and award-winning author whose later novels, like "Babel-17" and "Dhalgren," further cemented his reputation in the science fiction genre.

FLASHBACK TO 1977 WHEN THIS BOOK WAS PUBLISHED:
When this book was published in 1977, the world was captivated by the cinematic phenomenon of *Star Wars*, while political landscapes shifted with Jimmy Carter's inauguration and the rise of punk rock challenged musical norms. The Concorde began commercial supersonic flights, a symbol of technological progress, as Samuel R. Delany continued to push boundaries in science fiction. This was a year of both cultural upheaval and scientific advancement, leaving an indelible mark on history.

Page Count: 159

Location: 01-02-01-094