THE MIGHTIEST MACHINE. Providence, R. I. Hadley Publishing Company, [1947]. Octavo, original red pebbled cloth (no priority), spine stamped in gold. First edition. An early space opera with galactic sweep, first published as a five-part serial in ASTOUNDING SCIENCE FICTION in 1934. "Intrepid space-farers are plunged into an alternative universe, where they discover ancient Earth-peoples and become embroiled in interplanetary war. Extravagant entertainment in the same rather juvenile vein as E. E. 'Doc' Smith's space epics of the period -- though it displays a better grasp of science and engineering. Campbell's first novel in book form, and perhaps the best of his early space operas." - Pringle, The Ultimate Guide to Science Fiction, second edition (1995), p. 237. Three novelette-length sequels, all rejected by ASF editor F. O. Tremaine, were combined and published as THE INCREDIBLE PLANET (1949). Anatomy of Wonder (1976) 3-7. Survey of Science Fiction Literature III, pp. 1369-1400. Bleiler (1978), p. 38. Reginald 02527. In 333. A copy in very good dust jacket with light wear at edges and a bit of general rubbing. A better copy than usually found. (#157692).
Price: $100.00
No statement of printing.