First Lensman by E.E. "Doc" Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The second Lensman book definitely hits all the classic Buck Rogers feel (while also predating Buck).

Notably, however, is the fact that this is where they go to the mysterious planet where they get the mysterious wristwatch that gives them mysterious powers.

It's funny. I kept wanting the book to SPELL OUT the powers. I'm so spoiled by today's fantasy with all its highfalutin rules and strict limitations. And it's even worse for SF, or rather, hard SF, which often tries to limit itself by its own rule-set!

But I digress. This is simply pure adventure. High adventure, complete with wars, vast attempts to understand strange creatures and cultures, and even politics at its most high-minded.

It definitely FEELS like Golden Age SF. Complete with that vaunted optimism.

I can't say I dislike it, either. Whatever else it is, it's high-minded and hopeful.



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