This is the first book in the EE Doc Smith Lensman series, a series which sweeps from pre-modern Atlantis all the way well into the future. Its pretty old, so some of the science is dangerously dated, but that's not its biggest flaw. This book suffers from uncontrolled hyperbole, which I guess isn't that unexpected for a space opera. I guess it was also more common at the time, before science fiction started taking itself seriously. The plot is also a little hard to believe, with both sides at one point murdering entire cities. They then of course forgive each other because "its logical".

However, I have an emotional attachment to this book, because it is the one which interested me in reading as a young child. Despite its flaws in both science and plot, it is still an ok book. I enjoyed reading it, and it was entertaining.

http://www.stillhq.com/book/EE_Doc_Sm... ( )

I wouldn't recommend this to anyone who didn't like or want to understand 'Campbellian' SF. It's not bad, especially a book or two into the series. After that, it gets to be a bit much. ( )

The introductory novel in the Lensman series is not that great, and perhaps is almost an afterthought prequel. It introduces the overarching conflict between the Arisians and the Eddorians, and jumps through ages of human history, including Atlantis, until getting to the current setting.

The Arisians have started programs to breed fine warriors on many planets, through subtle manipulation.

At the end of this prequel, the Galactic Patrol is formed, flight between stars is possible, and the First Lensman is given his Lens. The Lens is a jewelled band that gives the wearer great mental and enhanced physical powers. Only those in the Arisian breeding line are capable of wielding it, and becoming superhuman. This applies on any planet.

http://www.gutenberg.org/files/20782/...

http://superprose.blogspot.com/2006/1... ( )

I actually need to find a copy with all the pages. The old book I had (from my dad's bookshelf) was missing the ending. I know there's more based on info I found online, but I've read most of the book. No lensmen in it yet. ( )

Some of the worst dialog and characters ever. It is rare when you root for failure by the "hero" before he murders another city full of alien creatures and then gives some lame assed justification for it. There are some cool retro sci-fi bits mixed in but generally this is a train wreck. Unless the rest of the Lensman series is much better I'd skip it all. ( )