Gray Lensman by E.E. Smith (1939)

Name: Gray Lensman
Author: E.E. Smith

The Gray Lensman is a science fiction novel written by E.E. Smith, first published in 1951. The book follows the story of a group of individuals known as the Lensmen, who possess advanced technological devices called "lenses" that give them extraordinary abilities. The main character, Kim Kinnison, is one of these Lensmen and must navigate a complex web of political intrigue and intergalactic conflict to save humanity from an alien threat. In the book, Kinnison and his fellow Lensmen encounter various technological and societal challenges as they work to protect Earth and the galaxy from the forces of evil. The novel explores themes of heroism, leadership, and the role of technology in shaping society. Overall, The Gray Lensman is a classic work of science fiction that has had a significant influence on the genre. Its blend of action, adventure, and philosophical inquiry has made it a beloved tale among fans of the genre, and its themes continue to resonate with readers today.

By E.E. Smith · First published 1939 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Space Opera · 26 chapters · 119,550 words

First lines

This is not, strictly speaking, a biography. It is not, it cannot be, comprehensive enough to be called that. Nor, since of necessity it must be limited, both in length and in scope, can it be called a history. It is, perhaps, best described as a record -- the record of the activities of Galactic Co-ordinator Kimball Kinnison, Gray Lensman, of Tellus, during the Boskonian War.

Nevertheless this record, what there is of it, is in essence biographical; and the biographer of such a man as Kinnison has a peculiar task. In one way it is easy, in two others it is difficult in the extreme.

What this Textopian page supports

Gray Lensman is listed on Textopian as a novel by E.E. Smith, dated 1939 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: E.E. Smith
Date: 1939 CE
Language: English
Genres: Science Fiction, Adventure, Space Opera, Military Science Fiction
Length: 119,550 words
Structure: 26 chapters, 2,007 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Work identity for Gray Lensman by E.E. Smith
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
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Discussion starters

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How does this novel by E.E. Smith fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles

Genres

Science Fiction — The book is part of the Lensman series, which is based on an imagined future history of our universe with its own technology and physics, central to science fiction genre.
Adventure — The protagonist traverses the galaxy in various missions against alien forces, which falls in line with the adventure genre.
Space Opera — The book has elements of space warfare, melodramatic adventure, and chivalric romance, traits typical of space opera genre.
Military Science Fiction — The story involves military operations, tactics, and hierarchical structures set in a science fiction environment.