The Demolished Man - 1st Hugo Award Winner (1953)
History
1st Hugo Award winner (1953)
Everybody voted and the work with the most votes won. Ranked Choice Voting was not set up.
First serialized in three parts in “Galaxy Science Fiction” Magazine
Alfred Bester also wrote Green Lantern Oath
In brightest day, in darkest night
No evil shall escape my sight!
Let those who worship evil's might
Beware my power ― Green Lantern's light!
““Be grateful that you only see the outward man. Be grateful that you never see the passions, the hatreds, the jealousies, the malice, the sicknesses... Be grateful you rarely see the frightening truth in people.” ”
Overview
The novel is set in the 24th century & story follows Ben Reach, a wealthy and powerful businessman. Reach plans to murder his business rival D'Courtney.
However, there is a small problem, committing a crime is nearly impossible in this society. Malicious thoughts can be detected by Espers, a group of telepathic individuals.
As the story unfolds, it becomes a tense psychological thriller cat & mouse drama. A Esper detective named Lincoln Powell sets out to catch Ben & reveal the truth.
Pros
1950’s perspective of what the future might look like is interesting.
Reads like a mystery novel. You know what’s happened but it is fun seeing the other characters piece things together.
The novel explores themes of power, morality, and the consequences of unchecked ambition, all set against the backdrop of a society where thoughts are no longer private.
Cons
Main characters we’re not relatable or likable. One is a ruthless businessman & the other is a detective who has not qualms about reading other peoples minds.
Nothing makes the work still stand out. The writing is nothing special & telepathy has now been done better by other forms of media.
Should you read it?
Yes, if you are looking for a classic Sci-Fi read. It’s held up fairly well. There’s some light sexism but compared to a lot of Sci-Fi it’s pretty moderate.
My Rating
250 pages, Paperback (7ish Hours to Read)