Approximate length: One volume, not very long (100-150 pages, if memory serves)
Where to find it: Local libraries or bookstores
What is it: A 1963 novel (and Hugo winner) about a Union soldier, Enoch Wallace, who is granted immortality in exchange for running what is basically an alien train station out of his home.
What I love about it: It's worth a read completely for the premise, which had me from the start, but in addition, it's also just a lovely book with clean, vivid prose that paints a fascinating picture of a vast and varied intergalactic society that Enoch gets to be a small part of. I love Enoch's open and curious and accepting attitude toward it all and the friendships he makes, particularly his friendships with Ulysses (the alien who first offers him the job) and Lucy Fisher (a local deaf and mute girl who ends up key to the overarching plot). It's a great canon for all kinds of worldbuilding and has an open ending with room for many possibilities!
Content notes: It was written in 1963, so there's some occasionally dated language/attitudes.
Way Station - Clifford D. Simak
Medium: Book
Approximate length: One volume, not very long (100-150 pages, if memory serves)
Where to find it: Local libraries or bookstores
What is it: A 1963 novel (and Hugo winner) about a Union soldier, Enoch Wallace, who is granted immortality in exchange for running what is basically an alien train station out of his home.
What I love about it: It's worth a read completely for the premise, which had me from the start, but in addition, it's also just a lovely book with clean, vivid prose that paints a fascinating picture of a vast and varied intergalactic society that Enoch gets to be a small part of. I love Enoch's open and curious and accepting attitude toward it all and the friendships he makes, particularly his friendships with Ulysses (the alien who first offers him the job) and Lucy Fisher (a local deaf and mute girl who ends up key to the overarching plot). It's a great canon for all kinds of worldbuilding and has an open ending with room for many possibilities!
Content notes: It was written in 1963, so there's some occasionally dated language/attitudes.