"They tried to kill me.
They want to pull out my teeth.
Be alert, it could happen to you!"
And all of this full of good humor!
EL MECANISME
(The Mechanism)
ArTicLes:
The Best of Soviet Science Fiction I
Rating: ★★★☆☆
"The Best of Soviet Science Fiction I" is an anthology published by Orbis in 1986 that brings together stories from several prominent Soviet authors in the genre, such as Alexander and Sergei Abramov, Kiril Bulychev, and Aleksandr Beliaev. The book aims to provide an overview of the science fiction produced in the Soviet Union—an area little known in the Western literary landscape of the time.
Positive aspects:
The main value of this collection lies in its role as a cultural bridge. For many Spanish-speaking readers, this anthology was one of the few ways to access a kind of science fiction very different from the American or British traditions. The stories often take on a more philosophical or social tone, with a critical (though subtle or veiled) perspective on technology, progress, and the human condition.
The originality of many of the premises is also worth highlighting. The authors frequently start from plausible scientific ideas or future scenarios to explore ethical and moral dilemmas, often linked to collectivism, utopia, or the limits of knowledge.
I especially enjoyed "A Little Girl to Whom Nothing Ever Happens", by Bulychev, and "Crabs on the Island", a classic by Anatoly Dneprov.
Negative aspects:
However, the anthology fails to maintain a consistent narrative quality. Some stories are brilliant and thought-provoking, but others feel a bit uneven in terms of plot. Additionally, the Orbis edition is adequate but limited. The translation is serviceable but lacks flair, and there are no introductions or notes to better contextualize the authors or the historical period. Given how deeply rooted the stories are in a specific sociopolitical context, this is a notable shortcoming.
Conclusion:
"The Best of Soviet Science Fiction I" is a volume of considerable historical and literary interest, especially for readers who enjoy the genre and want to explore beyond the Anglo-American canon. Nevertheless, the collection is uneven, and the edition could offer more support for a deeper understanding and appreciation. A recommendable, though not essential, book—except for Dneprov’s story, which stands out.
An interesting read with clear highs and lows.
Cover:
The cover illustration of "The Best of Soviet Science Fiction I" (Orbis, 1986) is a striking and enigmatic visual composition that immediately captures the eye. With organic, tubular forms that evoke alien technology or advanced microscopic life, it creates an atmosphere of scientific intrigue and unexplored realms. The cool tones and sense of floating motion perfectly convey the speculative and visionary spirit of Soviet science fiction. It’s an evocative image that invites the reader into unknown worlds full of intellectual and fantastic possibilities. The author of the illustration is T.C. Gilsanz.
*Autores varios. Lo mejor de la ciencia ficción soviética I. Biblioteca de Ciencia Ficción 62. Editorial Orbis, SA. Barcelona, 1986. 191 págs. Traducción de los cuentos de Sebastián Castro y Antonio Molina García. ISBN: 84-7634-565-8