Circle of Confusion
Circle of Confusion is a science fiction novel written by George O. Smith and published in 1947. The story follows the adventures of a group of scientists who discover a way to travel through time and space using a device called the "circle of confusion." They use this technology to explore other planets and civilizations, encountering various challenges along the way. The book is known for its imaginative world-building and fast-paced action sequences.
By George O. Smith · First published 1947 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Drama · 11,014 words
First lines
Pluto is a strange planet in many ways. Perhaps it may even be classed as a "man-made" planet, since if it were not for man and his works, Pluto might as well have never been. But Pluto was found abundant in uranium, and then came man to change the ultra-frigidity of Pluto's surface, and to endow Pluto with a breathable atmosphere by transporting great shiploads of the frozen gases found on Umbriel. Then man set up cities, and since the face of Pluto had never been scarred by any kind of intelligent life, the planners had a free and open hand.
What this Textopian page supports
Circle of Confusion is listed on Textopian as a novel by George O. Smith, dated 1947 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: George O. Smith
- Date: 1947 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Adventure, Drama, Thriller, Speculative Fiction
- Length: 11,014 words
- Structure: 1 section, 306 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Circle of Confusion by George O. Smith
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Circle of Confusion?
- How does this novel by George O. Smith fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Spillthrough by Daniel F. Galouye
- The Magnificent Possession by Isaac Asimov
- One Of Three by George O. Smith
- The Mobius Trail by George O. Smith
- Troubled Star by George O. Smith
- A Hitch In Time by Frederik Pohl
Genres
- Science Fiction — The narrative is set on Pluto, a planet transformed by human technology, featuring advanced concepts like space warping and magneto-gravitic fields.
- Adventure — The plot involves high-stakes action, including a daring flight through a dangerous lens and the subsequent efforts to avert disaster.
- Drama — The story includes interpersonal conflicts and character development, particularly around Sandra Drake's defiance and the challenges faced by the station crew.
- Thriller — The tension and urgency in preventing a catastrophe on Pluto create a suspenseful atmosphere.
Tags
science fiction · space exploration · time travel · alternate reality · philosophy · technology · human nature · conflict · moral dilemmas · adventure · suspense · mystery