By Roger Zelazny
Published: 1967
On an earth colony in space where a group of immortals rule and have taken the names of the Hindu gods, Mahasamatman--the Binder of Demons and Lord of Light--fights against the forces of evil.
Roger Zelazny was a prolific American author known for his extensive contributions to the science fiction and fantasy genres. Born on May 13, 1937, he gained prominence with his innovative storytelling and unique blend of mythological themes, complex characters, and poetic prose. Notable works include 'The Chronicles of Amber' series, 'Lord of Light', 'Night in the Lonesome October', and 'The Last Defender of Camelot'. Zelazny's writing style is characterized by its lyrical quality, intricate plots, and philosophical explorations, earning him multiple Hugo and Nebula Awards throughout his career. He remains a pivotal figure in speculative fiction, influencing a generation of writers.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In a dystopian future, Katniss Everdeen volunteers to take her sister's place in a brutal televised competition known as the Hunger Games, where only one victor can survive. As she navigates the treacherous arena filled with deadly foes and oppressive government forces, her resourcefulness and instincts are put to the ultimate test. Alliances form, betrayals loom, and the line between survival and morality blurs in the fight for freedom. With each turn of the page, readers are drawn deeper into a gripping tale of courage, sacrifice, and the quest for justice. Will Katniss's defiance spark a revolution, or will she become another pawn in a deadly game?
In "The Priory of the Orange Tree," a richly woven tapestry of fantasy unfolds, where a matriarchal society faces an age-old threat from a dragon that once ravaged their lands. Amidst court intrigue and budding alliances, a fierce dragon rider and a reluctant noblewoman must confront their destinies while grappling with their emerging identities. As ancient magical forces stir, secrets long buried begin to surface, challenging their beliefs and allegiances. With a captivating blend of romance, adventure, and empowerment, this epic tale dares to reimagine classic tropes and ignite the flames of courage. Will they unite to save their world, or will the shadows of the past consume them all?
In Ursula K. Le Guin's groundbreaking science fiction novel, "The Left Hand of Darkness," an envoy from Earth, Genly Ai, embarks on an extraordinary mission to the icy planet of Gethen, where inhabitants possess a unique gender fluidity that challenges his every assumption. As he navigates the treacherous political landscape and forges an uneasy alliance with the enigmatic Gethenian, Estraven, Genly confronts the profound implications of identity and belonging. The harsh, frozen world mirrors the complexities of human relationships, weaving a tale of friendship, betrayal, and self-discovery. Le Guin crafts a mesmerizing exploration of how culture shapes our understanding of gender and love. Will Genly's quest for acceptance and unity transcend the boundaries of difference, or will it be lost in the unforgiving cold?
In 'The Ride of a Lifetime', Robert Iger, the former CEO of The Walt Disney Company, shares his inspiring journey from a small-town boy to the helm of one of the world's most iconic brands. Iger details the bold decisions and visionary strategies that transformed Disney, including the acquisition of Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm. His candid reflections on leadership, creativity, and the art of storytelling reveal the secrets behind Disney's unprecedented success. As Iger navigates through challenges and triumphs, he invites readers to understand the importance of resilience and innovation in a rapidly changing world. This memoir is not just a recount of corporate achievements; it's a thrilling exploration of dreams realized and the enduring magic of imagination.
In a dystopian future where fertility has become rare, women are stripped of their rights and relegated to roles based on their reproductive capabilities. Offred, a Handmaid in the oppressive Republic of Gilead, navigates a world filled with fear, betrayal, and hope as she seeks to reclaim her identity. As she becomes increasingly entwined in a forbidden affair, the lines between survival and rebellion blur. Atwood weaves a haunting tale that challenges the reader to confront issues of power, gender, and autonomy. Will Offred find a way to freedom, or is she doomed to remain a pawn in a chilling game?
In 'Presence', Amy Cuddy explores the transformative power of body language and how it impacts not just how others perceive us, but how we perceive ourselves. Through compelling research and personal stories, she reveals how adopting confident postures can influence our thoughts, emotions, and ultimately, our success. Cuddy challenges the reader to confront their self-doubt and harness their inner strength to achieve personal and professional goals. The book answers the question: Can you fake it until you become it? Prepare to discover how small changes in your demeanor can lead to big changes in your life.
In 'Children of Blood and Bone,' young Zélie Adebola fights to restore magic to her land of Orïsha, which has been stripped away by a ruthless king. With the help of a rebellious princess and a rogue guard, she embarks on a dangerous quest that awakens the dormant magic within her people. As Zélie navigates treacherous alliances and confronts her past, she must grapple with the complexities of power, race, and identity. Tensions rise with each pulse of magic that returns, igniting civil unrest that threatens to consume them all. This sweeping tale promises an epic clash of ancient traditions and modern struggles, leaving readers hungry for more.
In a dystopian future ravaged by climate change and societal collapse, Lauren Olamina possesses a unique gift: hyper-empathy, the ability to feel others' pain. When her walled community is destroyed, she embarks on a perilous journey toward safety, guided by her vision of a new belief system called Earthseed. Along the way, Lauren faces brutal realities of survival, meets diverse companions, and confronts the harshness of humanity. As she navigates this treacherous world, her resilience and ideals are put to the test. Will Lauren's revolutionary philosophy provide hope for a better future, or will it be lost in the chaos?
Showing 8 of 25 similar books

Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.

Elon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.

Sahil Lavingia is an accomplished entrepreneur and writer, best known as the founder and CEO of Gumroad, a platform that enables creators to sell products directly to consumers. His book "The Minimalist Entrepreneur" distills his philosophy on building sustainable, lean startups that prioritize long-term vision and customer value over rapid scaling. Lavingia's work has inspired a new generation of entrepreneurs to focus on simplicity and self-reliance. Additionally, he is recognized for his thoughtful essays and blog posts that delve into the intersection of technology, business, and creativity. Through his contributions to literature and his leadership at Gumroad, Lavingia has significantly influenced modern startup culture.

Sophie Bakalar is a distinguished author and venture capitalist known for her adept storytelling and insightful exploration of contemporary issues. Her debut novel received critical acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of complex characters and societal dynamics. In addition to her literary achievements, Bakalar is a co-founder of a successful venture firm, where she leverages her keen understanding of market trends and innovation. Her essays and articles, often featured in prominent publications, reflect her deep engagement with cultural and technological shifts. Bakalar's multifaceted career bridges the worlds of literature and entrepreneurship, making her a unique voice in both fields.

Frank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.

Richard Branson is a British entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin Group, which operates in sectors ranging from airlines to space travel. Branson’s entrepreneurial journey began in the 1970s with Virgin Records, and he has since built one of the most recognized brands in the world. Known for his adventurous spirit and willingness to take risks, Branson has pursued innovative ventures like Virgin Galactic, aiming to pioneer commercial space tourism. He is also a philanthropist, focusing on environmental sustainability and global health issues. Branson's bold and unconventional approach to business has made him a global icon of entrepreneurship.

Emma Watson is a British actress and activist best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, which brought J.K. Rowling's beloved books to life. Beyond her acting career, Watson has made significant contributions to literature by promoting gender equality and women's rights through her work with the United Nations, including the HeForShe campaign. She has also curated and shared book recommendations that highlight feminist literature and diverse voices. Watson graduated from Brown University with a degree in English literature, further emphasizing her dedication to the literary world. Her advocacy and influence have made her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and literary communities.

Tom Hanks is an acclaimed American actor and filmmaker, renowned for his versatile roles in iconic films such as "Forrest Gump," "Saving Private Ryan," and "Cast Away." Beyond his cinematic achievements, Hanks has made significant contributions to literature, notably with his collection of short stories titled "Uncommon Type," which showcases his talent as a writer. His storytelling prowess extends to his work as a producer and director, where he has brought numerous historical and literary adaptations to life. Hanks's dedication to his craft has earned him numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards for Best Actor. Additionally, his engaging narrative style and keen insight into human experiences have solidified his reputation as a multifaceted artist in both film and literature.
Showing 8 of 19 related collections
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.