E.E. 'Doc' Smith SF Gateway Omnibus: The Skylark of Space, Skylark Three, Skylark of Valeron, Skylark DuQuesne (SF Gateway Omnibuses) by E.E. 'Doc' Smith (2013-10-31)

The Skylark Series Classic Space Opera in a grand fashion! A chemist's solution provides unlimited energy- and the resulting physics of FTL travel and beams and fields of force. Fast paced adventure explores the concepts of: beings energy of pure mind; beings of pure logic; the radical idea of a systematic program for controlled genetic enhancement of a planet of people; psionics; aliens of a radically differing underlying chemical construction; the complexities of n-space; and the interesting suggestion of a ruthless immoral integrity that is in opposition to an equally ruthless but traditional moral integrity. Originally published as four volumes, Skylark of Space, Skylark Three, Skylark of Valeron and Skylark DuQuesne, it is available as a four in one volume entitled The Complete Skylark published by the Science Fiction Book Club. Recommended for juveniles as well as adult readers who enjoy exercising their mind in considering a universe depicted with grandly broad brush strokes.

This is one of the two major works written by E.E. Doc Smith, predating the Lensman Saga. All four volumes in the skylark are contained in this large book. E.E. Doc Smith is a pulp writer, so the writing is fast paced, and about strong, smart men and beautiful, intelligent women. The science Fiction elements are campy, but in a good way that in many ways predates campiness entirely. Strongly recommended for people who like pulp science fiction/space opera.