McIlvaine's Star

Name: McIlvaine's Star
Author: August Derleth

By August Derleth

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Science-Fiction & Fantasy

About This Book

An eccentric amateur astronomer detects a dark, nonluminous star drawing nearer and, after being mocked by friends and having the sighting confirmed by an observatory, uses a homemade transmitter to attempt contact. Initial signals give way to an extraordinary mind-to-mind exchange in which the star’s inhabitants convey images and concepts rather than familiar speech. He perceives an ageless, rejuvenating, insectoid-amphibious people and vast, windowless cities on a barren world; they in turn cannot conceive of humanlike beings. The narrative follows the bafflement, wonder, and quiet unease that accompany first contact between profoundly different intelligences.

About the Author

August Derleth

August Derleth was an American writer and publisher, best known for his contributions to the horror genre and for his association with H.P. Lovecraft's Cthulhu Mythos. He founded Arkham House, a publishing company dedicated to preserving and promoting weird fiction. Derleth's works often blend elements of fantasy and science fiction, with notable titles including "A Traveler in Time" and "McIlvaine's Star." His literary output spans novels, short stories, and essays, reflecting a deep engagement with the themes of cosmic horror and the supernatural. Through his efforts, Derleth played a significant role in shaping the landscape of 20th-century speculative fiction.