Jerome Bixby was a master of science fiction, known for his writing that explored the human condition in the face of technological advancement and societal change. His writing style was characterized by its economy and brutal honesty, bringing to life vivid and thought-provoking stories that captivated audiences.
One of Bixby’s most famous works is the short story “Little Boy,” which appears in “Incredible Science Fiction: Amazing Tales from the 50s and Beyond Volume Two.” This heart-warming tale takes place in a dystopian post-apocalyptic New York, where the titular Little Boy, just 11 years old, has degenerated into a feral state, surviving by foraging for food and avoiding danger at every turn. Despite the almost overwhelming bleakness of the setting, there is a great deal of humanity in the story, particularly when the Little Boy meets a friend.
Bixby’s talent for storytelling was not limited to the printed page. He also made significant contributions to television, writing for the original run of “The Twilight Zone” and several episodes of the original series of “Star Trek.” His work has been recognized and appreciated by audiences and fans of science fiction for many years.
For those looking to discover more of Bixby’s work, you’re in luck! The author’s writing is being considered for inclusion in further volumes of “Incredible Science Fiction: Amazing Tales from the 50s and Beyond.” This series of books provides a comprehensive look at the incredible works of science fiction from the 1950s, featuring some of the most influential and groundbreaking stories of the era. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering Bixby’s work for the first time, you won’t want to miss out on the chance to experience the masterful storytelling of this remarkable author.
Here’s a five-minute sample from Little Boy which is the sixth story in Incredible Science Fiction: Amazing Tales from the ’50s and Beyond Volume Two. The full story is 29 minutes and fours seconds long.