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The Creatures of Man
A future war is being fought across the galaxy and the key to victory can be found on the legendary lost world where humanity originated-Earth. But even if the lost home world can be found, there may be no place for humans on it anymore. The creatures who are now the sole inhabitants, and which mankind once dominated, have been raised to a high level of intelligence and the future they plan is not one with any room for the former rulers of the planet. This future saga is here assembled for the first time, as well as several bonus short novels in a huge volume of highly original space adventure.
640 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2003
58 people are currently reading
506 people want to read
About the author
Howard L. Myers
46 books2 followersHoward L. Myers (1930-1971) was an American science fiction author, best known for his work published in Analog and Galaxy (frequently under the name Verge Foray) and his only novel, Cloud Chamber.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
March 10, 2014
This is another book I got because it's currently free for Kindle.
Some of the short stories are really fascinating and some of them are really unpleasant. I haven't finished the book but I can tell you this: skip the "The Earth of Nenkunal" section. Just skip it. It would be hard to make it more misogynistic if you tried, and that's before the main character rapes someone. The details make it even worse. Just don't.
Also: Eugenics. And silly eugenics at that. No, dude, being a lazy or clumsy or unmotivated engineer is not genetic! People are too complicated to categorize on a straight line from good to bad and success in business does not necessarily correspond to even what you think you're talking about. "Undesirable strains" "low-survival types" "losers" "freakish types" he says. Not to mention "genetic barbarians".
And then there's the shiny new more advanced subspecies of humans, whose most obvious distinguishing feature is having solid bone in the bridge of the nose instead of just cartilage. Sounds like something picked at random, right? Nope. "One step farther from the primordial flat-faced apeman," says the character who has it. Sure, go ahead, that argument's never been used by racists. /sarcasm
But I still couldn't help but like Gweanvin, until I got to the part where-- even though it's many thousand years in the future and he's just explained how none of the people involved are actually human-- men just inherently have "polygamous instincs" and women are the opposite.
In 19 short stories, we get two female POV characters. Neither is human.
The author has a huge amount of imagination and creativity, clearly, but somehow he can't conceive of women EVER growing beyond what he thinks they are in 1970. The main thing I got out of this book is a greater appreciation of female SF writers.
Some of the short stories are really fascinating and some of them are really unpleasant. I haven't finished the book but I can tell you this: skip the "The Earth of Nenkunal" section. Just skip it. It would be hard to make it more misogynistic if you tried, and that's before the main character rapes someone. The details make it even worse. Just don't.
Also: Eugenics. And silly eugenics at that. No, dude, being a lazy or clumsy or unmotivated engineer is not genetic! People are too complicated to categorize on a straight line from good to bad and success in business does not necessarily correspond to even what you think you're talking about. "Undesirable strains" "low-survival types" "losers" "freakish types" he says. Not to mention "genetic barbarians".
And then there's the shiny new more advanced subspecies of humans, whose most obvious distinguishing feature is having solid bone in the bridge of the nose instead of just cartilage. Sounds like something picked at random, right? Nope. "One step farther from the primordial flat-faced apeman," says the character who has it. Sure, go ahead, that argument's never been used by racists. /sarcasm
But I still couldn't help but like Gweanvin, until I got to the part where-- even though it's many thousand years in the future and he's just explained how none of the people involved are actually human-- men just inherently have "polygamous instincs" and women are the opposite.
In 19 short stories, we get two female POV characters. Neither is human.
The author has a huge amount of imagination and creativity, clearly, but somehow he can't conceive of women EVER growing beyond what he thinks they are in 1970. The main thing I got out of this book is a greater appreciation of female SF writers.
April 11, 2012
Back in the 1970's you would often see stories by Howard L. Myers in the magazines. They were always good stories, too. For some reason he would sometimes use the pen name "Verge Foray". His best stories were in my opinion the "econo-war" stories. In these stories humanity had conquered space (to the extent that a human being could fly to another planet without using a space ship), had something called psych-release which made everyone sane, and could provide for everyone's material needs. After doing this they discovered that unless there was some meaningful competition their civilization would collapse. They created the econo-war, a deliberately endless war like the one in 1984 with the crucial difference that everyone involved knew it needed to be endless and why. The challenge in the stories is to keep the war going when one side threatens to win it.
Since Myers wrote some of the econo-war stories under his own name and some as Verge Foray and they were published in both Analog and Galaxy it was frustrating to read them because they referred to events in other stories that would be impossible to track down. This book collects all those stories and many more.
Myers died before he became a well known author. I do not doubt that if he had lived he would be as well known today as Asimov and Heinlein.
Since Myers wrote some of the econo-war stories under his own name and some as Verge Foray and they were published in both Analog and Galaxy it was frustrating to read them because they referred to events in other stories that would be impossible to track down. This book collects all those stories and many more.
Myers died before he became a well known author. I do not doubt that if he had lived he would be as well known today as Asimov and Heinlein.
October 6, 2015
I enjoyed reading this book, overall, more than I thought I would. It has eleven short stories that are 'stand alones' and the rest of the book is composed of a collection called the 'econo-war.' The 'econo-war' 'series' is interesting in that the stories are arranged as Eric Flint sees fit [I assume he did some kind of research to determine the order of the stories] and not necessarily in the order in which they are written [for instance, the 'last' econo-war story in the volume was written before the other stories, making it the 'first' story when it is the 'last' story]. The stand alone stories moved at a pretty good clip. The econo-war stories kind of dragged.
I think part of the reason why I enjoyed reading this collection is that it seemed to be more unique than other stories. There is a race of beings that becomes addicted to chocolate, there is a planet set aside by humanity specifically for certain insects [bees, ants, butterflies, and spiders]. There is a dystopian story where dogs apparently are the 'ruling class' [at least, that is how it seemed to me, that the dogs let humans live in order to act as a mobile larder for the dogs]. I also liked how humanity could not travel through outer space wearing nothing but shorts, boots, and a shirt. [Obviously there have been technological enhancements that allow humans to survive the harsh environment of outer space, but I still enjoyed reading about the concept].
The worst story is 'the Earth of Nenkunal', and that is primarily due to a man raping a child who had been 'cursed' to turn into a woman in two weeks time. Despite the woman having the mind and experiences of a child and her 'protector' knowing this, the 'hero' rapes her. This was bad enough, but then the author has the 'woman-child' enjoy the experience!?! [It reminded me of the second 'Colossus' book, where the professor's wife is continually raped until she comes to love her rapist guard.] I do not get this mindset, that women enjoy being raped and want to be raped. Anyway. Worst part of the book.
I enjoyed 'Creatures of Man' and 'the Psychivore' the most. 'the Reluctant Weapon' was also pretty crazy . 'Health Hazard' was pretty good; it was kind of funny and had an interesting twist to it .
'Fit for a Dog' was disturbing. I doubt it could be released today .
'Practice' was kind of weird. It involves a batch of 'children' who are telepathic; since they can read thoughts, they are understandably upset when their adult teachers have inappropriate [sexual] thoughts directed at the children and at each other. That story made me a bit uncomfortable.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this collection. I did not necessarily like or enjoy everything in the collection, but I enjoyed it, overall.
I think part of the reason why I enjoyed reading this collection is that it seemed to be more unique than other stories. There is a race of beings that becomes addicted to chocolate, there is a planet set aside by humanity specifically for certain insects [bees, ants, butterflies, and spiders]. There is a dystopian story where dogs apparently are the 'ruling class' [at least, that is how it seemed to me, that the dogs let humans live in order to act as a mobile larder for the dogs]. I also liked how humanity could not travel through outer space wearing nothing but shorts, boots, and a shirt. [Obviously there have been technological enhancements that allow humans to survive the harsh environment of outer space, but I still enjoyed reading about the concept].
The worst story is 'the Earth of Nenkunal', and that is primarily due to a man raping a child who had been 'cursed' to turn into a woman in two weeks time. Despite the woman having the mind and experiences of a child and her 'protector' knowing this, the 'hero' rapes her. This was bad enough, but then the author has the 'woman-child' enjoy the experience!?! [It reminded me of the second 'Colossus' book, where the professor's wife is continually raped until she comes to love her rapist guard.] I do not get this mindset, that women enjoy being raped and want to be raped. Anyway. Worst part of the book.
I enjoyed 'Creatures of Man' and 'the Psychivore' the most. 'the Reluctant Weapon' was also pretty crazy . 'Health Hazard' was pretty good; it was kind of funny and had an interesting twist to it .
'Fit for a Dog' was disturbing. I doubt it could be released today .
'Practice' was kind of weird. It involves a batch of 'children' who are telepathic; since they can read thoughts, they are understandably upset when their adult teachers have inappropriate [sexual] thoughts directed at the children and at each other. That story made me a bit uncomfortable.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this collection. I did not necessarily like or enjoy everything in the collection, but I enjoyed it, overall.
August 6, 2017
As a collection of short stories and novellas by this apparently obscure (as per the editor) sci-fi author from the seventies, this gives a perspective to the current generation of readers of what the less celebrated stories of the pulp sci-fi magazines of those times had been.
Ranging from standard pulpy fares like the Nenkunal fantasy to some of the far reaching science fiction of the Econo-war stories, this was an interesting read. Although the writing style of this author is rather bland, some of the ideas explored leave you pondering over them for quite a while after you're done with the story.
I would suggest one to pick this up just to read the Econo-war stories at the fag end which have the feel and scope of Asimov's Foundation stories, that I know anyone who has loved reading them is still hungering for.
Ranging from standard pulpy fares like the Nenkunal fantasy to some of the far reaching science fiction of the Econo-war stories, this was an interesting read. Although the writing style of this author is rather bland, some of the ideas explored leave you pondering over them for quite a while after you're done with the story.
I would suggest one to pick this up just to read the Econo-war stories at the fag end which have the feel and scope of Asimov's Foundation stories, that I know anyone who has loved reading them is still hungering for.
January 6, 2008
NOT ONLY STRANGER THAN YOU IMAGINE, STRANGER THAN YOU CAN IMAGINE
In a distant future when humans no longer need spaceships, but hurtle between the stars faster than light, propelled and protected by implants in their bodies, the galaxy has been divided between two battling factions who contend for dominance by economic maneuvering. Each side is determined to overwhelm the other, and is likely to abandon the "Econo-War" for a genuine shooting war if it thinks that defeat is imminent. Only one thing can avert the looming disaster: a talisman of great, almost supernatural power which has been lost for millennia on a minor world called Earth.
Here, The Econo-War is collected in one continuous novel-length narrative for the first time, along with other dazzling visions of future worlds: A planet where well-meaning busybodies from Earth try to "cure" the inhabitants of their craving for the exotic drug chocolate ... another planet where insects dimly recall myths of the humans who gave them intelligence before departing for the stars, and wonder if the strange creatures will ever return ... a brilliant concert pianist whose twin is the target of an inexplicable assassination plot which he must foil—because he and his "twin" share the same brain ... an intelligent weapon which was instructed billions of years ago to obliterate a race, but whose mission was frustrated by a slight malfunction—until now . . . and much more by a unique and original master of science fiction adventure.
"In the 1960s, Myers' stories came pouring out—almost every one of them excellent, ranging from the chilling to some of the wittiest science fiction stones ever written." —Eric Flint and Guy Gordon
Publisher's Note: Among insiders, Baen Books has become quite renowned for its penchant for "rediscovering" great SF, and Eric Flint has become famous for compiling and editing old greats. You probably haven't met "Verge Foray" (pen-name of Howard L. Myers) before. Well, lucky you; this is your chance to test out Baen's reputation, and Eric's, plus you have a pretty good shot at several hours of solid, edifying entertainment. —Jim Baen
Published 5/1/2003
SKU: 0743436075
Ebook Price: $4.00
Baen Free Library Book
In a distant future when humans no longer need spaceships, but hurtle between the stars faster than light, propelled and protected by implants in their bodies, the galaxy has been divided between two battling factions who contend for dominance by economic maneuvering. Each side is determined to overwhelm the other, and is likely to abandon the "Econo-War" for a genuine shooting war if it thinks that defeat is imminent. Only one thing can avert the looming disaster: a talisman of great, almost supernatural power which has been lost for millennia on a minor world called Earth.
Here, The Econo-War is collected in one continuous novel-length narrative for the first time, along with other dazzling visions of future worlds: A planet where well-meaning busybodies from Earth try to "cure" the inhabitants of their craving for the exotic drug chocolate ... another planet where insects dimly recall myths of the humans who gave them intelligence before departing for the stars, and wonder if the strange creatures will ever return ... a brilliant concert pianist whose twin is the target of an inexplicable assassination plot which he must foil—because he and his "twin" share the same brain ... an intelligent weapon which was instructed billions of years ago to obliterate a race, but whose mission was frustrated by a slight malfunction—until now . . . and much more by a unique and original master of science fiction adventure.
"In the 1960s, Myers' stories came pouring out—almost every one of them excellent, ranging from the chilling to some of the wittiest science fiction stones ever written." —Eric Flint and Guy Gordon
Publisher's Note: Among insiders, Baen Books has become quite renowned for its penchant for "rediscovering" great SF, and Eric Flint has become famous for compiling and editing old greats. You probably haven't met "Verge Foray" (pen-name of Howard L. Myers) before. Well, lucky you; this is your chance to test out Baen's reputation, and Eric's, plus you have a pretty good shot at several hours of solid, edifying entertainment. —Jim Baen
Published 5/1/2003
SKU: 0743436075
Ebook Price: $4.00
Baen Free Library Book
June 19, 2022
Tragic Loss
H. Myers is one of a long list of science fiction and fantasy writers who dies before they had the chance to receive the recognition they deserved. Along with greats like Asimov and Aldiss there were many lesser known,but nonetheless ,wonderful writer from the 1930’s to the late 1970’s who really deserved to join the pantheon of the greats. Collections like this are a great way of preserving their legacies
H. Myers is one of a long list of science fiction and fantasy writers who dies before they had the chance to receive the recognition they deserved. Along with greats like Asimov and Aldiss there were many lesser known,but nonetheless ,wonderful writer from the 1930’s to the late 1970’s who really deserved to join the pantheon of the greats. Collections like this are a great way of preserving their legacies
March 20, 2025
I thought I was going to find myself in front of a series of disconnected stories. It was nice to have a common driving theme. It is surprising in many of the turns and it kept me reading expectantly. I liked it a lot and would recommend it to any science fiction fan.
November 9, 2020
Great Stories
Brilliant writing and overall a great consistency to the overall storyline. Each character individually developed and contributed to the overarching theme.
Brilliant writing and overall a great consistency to the overall storyline. Each character individually developed and contributed to the overarching theme.
July 29, 2021
Extremely boring.
I just don’t care.
Quit.
Return book.
I just don’t care.
Quit.
Return book.
March 22, 2022
Classic Sci-fi
A classic example f of sci-fi fiction. An easy read and very interesting take on human evolution in warfare. The econo-war presented is really interesting.
A classic example f of sci-fi fiction. An easy read and very interesting take on human evolution in warfare. The econo-war presented is really interesting.
May 26, 2015
A collection of short stories. I was drawn to the latter half, the collection of Myers' "Econo-War" stories.
Centuries from now, humanity has departed Earth and has colonized the stars. Discrete implants allow men and women to travel through the void without the need for vessels.
Factions have formed amongst the colonies, and over the centuries, they have come to the conclusion that competitiveness is part of humanity's psychological makeup. In order to harness that competitive nature towards a less destructive purpose, a "corporate cold war" is being fought, referred to collectively as the 'Econo Wars'. Both sides desire to maintain a plausible equilibrium, the fear on both sides that the wars may begin to "heat up", or worse, the population would lose interest, should one side gain a significant advantage.
One of the characters, Gweanvin Oster, seen in two of the stories, gives the young female protagonists of today's YA dystopian fiction some competition.
Only eight 'Econo-War"stories were published, as he passed away at the age of forty, more were probably planned, though we'll never truly know. A shame, because the idea of humans traveling through space without benefit of space ships is an interesting one.
I'm surprised that some YA sci-fi novelist hasn't adapted the concept. I can imagine a film series adaptation of teens traveling through space in brightly colored uniforms/costumes, having teen romance drama, unveiling massive conspiracies, then banding together to defeat the powers that be...
...On second thought, please ignore that previous paragraph. The stories are interesting, and are worth an couple of reads.
Centuries from now, humanity has departed Earth and has colonized the stars. Discrete implants allow men and women to travel through the void without the need for vessels.
Factions have formed amongst the colonies, and over the centuries, they have come to the conclusion that competitiveness is part of humanity's psychological makeup. In order to harness that competitive nature towards a less destructive purpose, a "corporate cold war" is being fought, referred to collectively as the 'Econo Wars'. Both sides desire to maintain a plausible equilibrium, the fear on both sides that the wars may begin to "heat up", or worse, the population would lose interest, should one side gain a significant advantage.
One of the characters, Gweanvin Oster, seen in two of the stories, gives the young female protagonists of today's YA dystopian fiction some competition.
Only eight 'Econo-War"stories were published, as he passed away at the age of forty, more were probably planned, though we'll never truly know. A shame, because the idea of humans traveling through space without benefit of space ships is an interesting one.
I'm surprised that some YA sci-fi novelist hasn't adapted the concept. I can imagine a film series adaptation of teens traveling through space in brightly colored uniforms/costumes, having teen romance drama, unveiling massive conspiracies, then banding together to defeat the powers that be...
...On second thought, please ignore that previous paragraph. The stories are interesting, and are worth an couple of reads.
Read
March 2, 2014
Product Description
A future war is being fought across the galaxy and the key to victory can be found on the legendary lost world where humanity originated - Earth. But even if the lost home world can be found, there may be no place for humans on it anymore. The once-lowly creatures who are now the sole inhabitants, and which mankind dominated in ages past, have been raised to a high level of intelligence and the future they plan is not one with any room for the former rulers of the planet. This future saga is here assembled for the first time, as well as several bonus short novels in a huge volume of highly original space adventure.
January 31, 2017
This is a collection of short stories some ranging 50 pages others ranging 500 it shows up as a 600 page book but on my phone it is 1600. It is a very good book I like every story within it. I especially like the ones regarding the econo-war or a war fought based on the basis of commercial products not guns and death. There are two major companies that live on many worlds and produce products that directly fight what the other one has. This one is my favorite because of the stories of people it follows. It follows an engineer then a CEO and then it shifts to a forntliner. I would highly recommend this book.
April 19, 2016
The Creatures of Man is a collection of previously published short stories by Mr. Myers which appeared in Galaxy, Analog, etc during the four years he was writing.
I've been really enjoying them. Unlike most modern sci-fi which caters to the action-adventures we have grown to love, these focus on a situation which at the end leaves you questioning what it means to be human, how a person thinks, what are our limits as a species and what are our strengths, etc.
Picked up while free on Kindle.
I've been really enjoying them. Unlike most modern sci-fi which caters to the action-adventures we have grown to love, these focus on a situation which at the end leaves you questioning what it means to be human, how a person thinks, what are our limits as a species and what are our strengths, etc.
Picked up while free on Kindle.
Read
August 22, 2008The Creatures of Man by Howard Myers (2005)
March 10, 2022
haven't read the book yet
tbr-later
February 19, 20204/1/2013: Free on Kindle
April 29, 2013
The isolated short stories were better than the Econo-war tales. Those went on too long, with details that often felt like nothing more than filler. But the independent stories were very good.
April 22, 2014
Free for Kindle is always a nice price. I enjoyed many of the short stories, but the after the 60% point, I was more than ready to be reading something else!
November 10, 2017
Solid collection of SF short stories. I particularly liked the "EconoWar" tales. And since it's available free on Kindle, you can't really beat the price!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews