THE LEGION OF SPACE by Williamson, Jack (John Stewart Williamson) - 1947

Reading, Pennsylvania: Fantasy Press, 1947. Octavo, cloth. First edition. One of 500 numbered copies signed by Williamson. This copy inscribed to Joseph G. Dittrich. The Solar System is invaded and mankind is nearly annihilated by the Medusae, loathsome aliens from another star system. "There are stylistic and developmental problems with "The Legion of Space," notably the irritating characterizations of the musketeers and John Ulnar; nevertheless the concept of AKKA [a sort of super disintegrator ray] is tantalizing, and the story is carried along by a drive and verve that made it one of the better early space operas." - Bleiler, Science-Fiction: The Gernsback Years 1755. The novel was first published as a six-part serial in ASTOUNDING STORIES, April-September 1934, and was republished as Williamson's first book, preceded by a booklet printing a short story written by Williamson in collaboration with Dr. Miles J. Breuer. Anatomy of Wonder (2004) II-1258. In 333. Dittrich's bookplate is affixed to the front paste-down. Top edge of text block a bit dusty, a nearly fine copy in very good dust jacket with light wear and rubbing along top and bottom edges, some fading to spine panel, and dust soiling to rear panel. (#165526)