Science Fiction Gems, Volume Five, Clifford D. Simak and Others

John Jakes (b. 1932), the author of more than a dozen novels, is regarded as one of today’s most distinguished writers of historical fiction. His work includes the highly acclaimed Kent Family Chronicles series and the North and South Trilogy. Jakes’s commitment to historical accuracy and evocative storytelling earned him the title of “the godfather of historical novelists” from the Los Angeles Times and led to a streak of sixteen consecutive New York Times bestsellers. Jakes has received several awards for his work and is a member of the Authors Guild and the PEN American Center. He and his wife, Rachel, live on the west coast of Florida.

Keith Laumer (1925-1993) was an American science fiction writer and former diplomat whose real-world experience in international service informed many of his stories. Best known for the satirical Retief series and the influential Bolo tales of military science fiction, Laumer combined wit, action, and political insight. His work remains a defining presence in mid-twentieth-century speculative fiction.