Keith Laumer was one of the most distinctive voices in 20th-century science fiction, renowned for his sharp wit, inventive imagination, and masterful blend of action and satire. A former U.S. Air Force officer and diplomat, Laumer brought to his writing a keen understanding of strategy, politics, and human ambition — elements that shine through in his unforgettable stories. This illustrated collection presents some of Laumer's most iconic works, from his thrilling Retief adventures — lampooning the absurdities of interstellar diplomacy — to his classic time-travel and alternate-universe tales that explore the fragility and resilience of human destiny. His narratives are fast-paced and filled with colorful characters, yet beneath the adventure lies biting social commentary and philosophical depth. Laumer's fiction stands out for its unique balance of humor and gravity: he could conjure lighthearted escapades with bureaucratic aliens one moment, and then sweep readers into high-stakes battles across time and space the next. His stories remain as fresh and engaging today as when they first captured readers' imaginations decades ago. The Timeless Science Fiction of Keith Laumer — Illustrated Classics is both a celebration of Laumer's enduring legacy and an invitation to discover the brilliance of an author who defined an era of speculative storytelling. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, this volume is a gateway into worlds where courage, wit, and human ingenuity triumph against the odds. Contents: -Gambler's World -The Yillian Way -The Madman from Earth -Retief of the Red-Tape Mountain -Aide Memoire -Cultural Exchange -The Desert and the Stars -Saline Solution -Mightiest Qorn -The Governor of -The King of the City -End as a Hero -Doorstep