AboutSue Kayton Expertise Engineer who has read thousands of science fiction books and short stories. Can recommend stories on specific subjects and comment on technical feasibility. Especially good at older out-of-print books and authors.
Expert: Sue Kayton Date: 2/16/2008 Subject: sci fi
Question Sue,
Many, many years ago(50 or more)I read a collection of Sheckley's short stories that still haunt my memory. One was called "The Mars Shop." Another whose title I don't remember was a first person narrative (I think) told by a man living in the future where aliens have taken over and humans are mistreated slaves. The story ends with the old guy very happy to learn that his fondest wish has been granted...permission to be executed! Still gives me goose bumps to think about it. Another story, as I recall, is a clinical account of an alien machine that systematically dissects humans for anatomical study. The great "The Seventh Victim" might also have been in there too. It later became "The Tenth Victim" as a movie. Do you know of this volume? How can I get a copy? I especially would LOVE to reread the one about the old guy shedding tears of joy when he learns his death wish has been granted. Thank you very much for your time and interest. Bob"
Answer Check out this list of short stories and books by Sheckley
