Malcolm Smith

A Zoologist Looks at Science Fiction Malcolm Smith

H. G. Wells claimed that the essence of science fiction is the suspension of belief. For the writer of this book, it is harder than for most, because he is qualified in zoology. While our knowledge of physics is incomplete, and such things as time travel and faster than light spaceships can be introduced with a modicum of techno-babble, the physics of living flesh is well established. Armed with this knowledge, the author sticks it to H. G. Wells, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Frank Herbert, "Star Trek", and "Avatar". While putting the kibosh on giant spiders, tiny humanoids, and interplanetary hybrids, he explains how the dinosaurs managed to get so big, and how most of what you read about early man is wrong along with a mass of other material. This volume will be essential reading to all prospective science fiction writers, and an eye-opener to all fans.