This Immortal

Author: Roger Zelazny

If this novel were written in the paranoid political and social climate of today, it's doubtful that it would be published. Its herowho tells the story in the first person, as Zelazny's heroes often doafter all used to be a terrorist. But then again, he did it for 'us', against the Vegan invaders who have taken possession of the Earth, and so maybe he's one of the good guys. Conrad, as he calls himself (though he's also Karaghiosis, a trickster-type figure from Greek folklore) is a bit of a demi-god, what with being immortal and having been kicking around for quite a long time. And now the future fate of the Earthwith all its pathetic 4 million-odd Earthling survivors after the nuclear waris in his hands. Conrad, with the help of his beloved wife, Cassandra, cooks up a desperate scheme to force the aliens to leave Earth alone. And its not only the Vegans he has to deal with, but some of his old terrorist buddies from long ago as well. They have their own agendas, that might well destroy any hope for Conrad to succeed with his devious plan. Why it's on the list: It's one of those amazing, short but totally gripping, Zelazny tales. It also won a Hugo in 1965. And if that isn't enough, it also contains the most harebrained scheme to defeat the invaders' intentions, making best use of their weakness. Read if you like: Roger Zelazny. Which you should.