The Long Way by George O. Smith
The Long Way is a science fiction novel written by George O. Smith and published in 1958. The story follows the adventures of space explorer John Gordon, who becomes stranded on an alien planet after his ship crashes. With limited resources and no way to contact Earth, Gordon must use his wits and ingenuity to survive and find a way back home. Along the way, he encounters strange creatures, dangerous environments, and unexpected challenges that test his resolve and determination. The novel explores themes of isolation, perseverance, and the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.
By George O. Smith · First published 1958 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Drama · 14,105 words
First lines
Don Channing stood back and admired his latest acquisition with all of the fervency of a high school girl inspecting her first party dress. It was so apparent, this affection between man and gadget, that the workmen who were now carrying off the remnants of the packing case did so from the far side of the bench so that they would not come between the director of communications and the object of his affection. So intent was Channing in his adoration of the object that he did not hear the door open, nor the click of high heels against the plastic flooring. He was completely unaware of his surroundings until Arden said:
"Don, what off earth is that?"
What this Textopian page supports
The Long Way is listed on Textopian as a novel by George O. Smith, dated 1958 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: 1958 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Adventure, Drama, Thriller
- Length: 14,105 words
- Structure: 1 section, 447 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Long Way by George O. Smith
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- The Worlds Of Joe Shannon by Frank M. Robinson
- Voyage To Eternity by Stephen Marlowe
- Off The Beam by George O. Smith
- Star Bright by Bryce Walton
- The Gift Bearer by Charles L. Fontenay
Genres
- Science Fiction — The book primarily explores futuristic technology and space travel, which are central themes in science fiction.
- Adventure — The narrative involves a journey with challenges and discoveries, characteristic of adventure stories.
- Drama — The plot includes interpersonal conflicts and emotional developments, typical of dramatic storytelling.
- Thriller — The story contains suspenseful elements and tension, aligning with the thriller genre.
Tags
science fiction · space travel · adventure · exploration · interstellar · technology · future · humanity · survival · alien encounters · philosophy · relationships