The eighth in a series of superb science fiction.

The Alpha series of anthologies center on no particular theme except that of literary quality and importance to the science fiction genre.

Here is another set of the best stories, stories which were ahead of their epoch when they were new, which display a freshness and vigor that make them almost indistinguishable from the best of today's s-f, and which set the standard by which modern writers have guided their careers.

A DUSK OF IDOLS:

Not only are the gods cruel, but they can make you like it.

THE HUMAN OPERATORS:

The great ships possess unlimited cruising range—and unbounded ferocity.

WARM:

It's just a simple guessing game: to be? or not to be?

KLYSTERMAN'S SILENT VIOLIN:

Powerful weapons are a fine thing—but you wouldn't want your lover to marry one.

THE NEW REALITY:

It's amazing how much destruction you can wreak with a few simple tools—if you put your mind to it.

These and six other tales of the highest quality—the most amazing conviction!