E. E. Smith
E. E. 'Doc' Smith (1890-1965) was an American writer, a founding figure of 'space opera' — the grand, galaxy-spanning subgenre of science fiction — and one of the most beloved authors of the genre's early decades. His vast, action-packed adventures set the template for interstellar science fiction.
Smith is best known for the Lensman series and the earlier Skylark series, sweeping tales of heroic scientists, cosmic battles, and civilisations across the galaxy. Written with boundless energy and imagination, they thrilled generations of readers. A number of his early works have entered the public domain.
The library offers those public-domain works, including Triplanetary, First Lensman, and The Vortex Blaster — grand examples of the interplanetary adventure that made his name.
Our editions present these works clearly. Read the opening free, and read or listen with a membership.
E. E. Smith in the library · 3 works
Audiobooks by E. E. Smith
Every E. E. Smith title in the library is also a complete, professionally produced audiobook — 3 audiobooks in total. Members listen free on any device. Browse the audiobook library →
Frequently asked questions about E. E. Smith
What did E. E. Smith write?
Smith wrote grand 'space opera' science fiction, most famously the Lensman series and the Skylark series. His galaxy-spanning adventures of heroic scientists and cosmic warfare helped define the genre. He is considered one of the fathers of space opera.
Which E. E. Smith works are available here?
The library offers his works that are in the public domain, including Triplanetary, First Lensman, and The Vortex Blaster. These are part of his sweeping interstellar sagas. We include the public-domain titles and note where later works may remain under copyright.
What is 'space opera'?
'Space opera' is the grand, adventurous subgenre of science fiction featuring interstellar travel, sweeping galactic conflicts, heroic characters, and epic scope. E. E. Smith is regarded as one of its founding fathers, and his Lensman and Skylark series are classic early examples. The style influenced everything from later science fiction to films like Star Wars.
Where should I start with E. E. Smith?
Triplanetary is a good starting point among the public-domain works, opening the epic Lensman saga with grand cosmic adventure. First Lensman continues the story. Both are fast, energetic reads full of the sense of scale he was famous for.
Why is E. E. Smith important?
Smith pioneered space opera, creating vast, action-packed galactic adventures that thrilled early science-fiction readers and shaped the genre for decades. His Lensman series in particular became a classic of interstellar science fiction. His influence on later space adventure, in books and film, is significant.
Are E. E. Smith's books hard to read?
Not at all — they were written as fast-paced popular entertainment, full of action and grand ideas, so they read quickly. Their style is unabashedly energetic and pulpy. A clear modern edition keeps all the sweep and excitement of the adventures.
Where can I read E. E. Smith for free?
Smith's public-domain works are freely available. Older editions keep the original text. Here you can read the opening free in clear modern English, and read or listen with a membership.
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