DO ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP? by Philip K.Dick (US 1st / 1st PB NAL 1969)

Description: Title: DO ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP? Author: Philip K.Dick Edition: US 1st Impression: 1st Printing (Authorised reprint of the Doubleday Hardback)Format: Paperback Publisher: New American Library (NAL/Signet) Year: 1969 (March)Pages: 159Weight: 100 gDimensions: 178 x 105 x 10 mmSBN: 345404475 Condition: Very Good: Tightly-bound sharp block seems unread, with no tears, no missing pages, no highlighting, no sunning, no lean, minor shelfwear (see photos), not dedicated and not ex-library. Clean inside covers with no foxing; tanning throughout in line with its great age. Summary: "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" is a science fiction novel by Philip K. Dick, first published in 1968. The story is set in a post-apocalyptic world after a global nuclear war, leaving most animal species endangered or extinct. The main character is Rick Deckard, a bounty hunter who is assigned to "retire" (i.e. kill) six escaped Nexus-6 model androids. These androids are getting harder and harder to distinguish from real people, and before killing an one, a bounty hunter must use a psychological test to confirm that the target is an android. In Dick's satirical style, there are a myriad of examples of the hypocrisies of human existence, alongside digressions about the nature of chaos and entropy. Themes: Empathy becomes a central force in the story, as it is the only measure by which androids can be distinguished from humans; characters struggle to differentiate between what is real and what is artificial, blurring the line between organic and artificial life forms. The role of memory is explored in the novel, highlighting its importance in building relationships, emotional maturity, and gaining knowledge; but it's portrayed as unreliable, making it difficult for characters to understand their environments. The relationship between humans, animals, and the environment is also a significant theme in the novel. After a nuclear war, the natural world is in ruins, and owning a real animal becomes a mark of social status highlighting the value placed on animals, and the dire state of the environment. "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" can be interpreted as a satire of contemporary American society, critiquing the commodification and consumerism prevalent in the culture. These themes contribute to the overall exploration of the human condition, the nature of reality, and the ethical implications of advanced technology in the novel which resonate even more today than in 1968 when it was first published. About the Author: Philip K. Dick was a prolific writer who delved into philosophical and metaphysical questions, often challenging the nature of reality and perception in his works. His unique style and thought-provoking themes have made him a significant figure in science fiction literature. Born on December 16, 1928, in Chicago, Illinois, he published 36 science fiction novels and 121 short stories throughout his career and passed away on March 2, 1982, in Santa Ana, California. He explored the essence of "what makes humans human" and the dangers of centralised power in his works. His writing style is characterized by clear and plain language, realistic dialogue, and a distinctive theme. He often wrote about androids, simulacra, and mechanical men, and his plots sometimes revolved around consciousness-raising drugs. Many of his later works tend toward dystopian settings, presenting visions of a future America as a vast gulag or a slave-labor state. Dick's novels frequently explore alternate worlds, post-Holocaust societies, and the blurring of reality and perception. Reception: He found commercial success with his alternative history novel "The Man in the High Castle," which earned him acclaim and a Hugo Award. His work has had a lasting impact on the science fiction genre and "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" has been adapted into two films starring Harrison Ford, "Blade Runner" (1982) and "Blade Runner: 2049" (2017) the first of which has a huge cult following. Delivery: UK (Signed-for) Postage is included in the price, not in addition. - Overseas buyers: via Ebay's "Global Shipping Program": buyer only pays the difference in postage from Ebays UK Hub to their location. Please note any local import taxes which may apply in addition are the responsibility of the buyer and are estimated for you at checkout by Ebay GSP, based on your address. Please consult with your own tax adviser before purchase if in any doubt, as duty rates vary from country to country, usually based on the total value including transit costs. - Returns: None (unless item is damaged irreversibly by the courier which is insured in full). Please look at the detailed photos & description before purchasing (I only use original photos of the item being shipped, not stock photos) and check my Star ratings - you won't be disappointed.

Price: 399 GBP

Location: WATFORD, Hertfordshire

End Time: 2024-08-20T22:58:05.000Z

Shipping Cost: 34.26 GBP