Evelyn E. Smith (1922-2000) was an American writer of science fiction and, later, a noted constructor of crossword puzzles. Active mainly in the 1950s, she brought wit, elegance, and a satirical touch to the science-fiction magazines of the era, writing clever and often humorous stories.
Smith's short fiction ranged from comic and satirical tales to more thoughtful science fiction, marked by a light, sophisticated style. A number of her stories from this period have entered the public domain, offering a delightful sample of mid-century magazine science fiction.
The library offers those public-domain stories, including 'The Vilbar Party,' 'The Doorway,' 'The Most Sentimental Man,' 'Collector's Item,' and 'My Fair Planet.' They showcase her wit and imagination.
Our editions present these works clearly. Read a story free, and read or listen with a membership.

Collector's Item
My Fair Planet
The Most Sentimental Man
The Vilbar Party
Every Evelyn E. Smith title in the library is also a complete, professionally produced audiobook — 5 audiobooks in total. Members listen free on any device. Browse the audiobook library →
Smith wrote science-fiction short stories, mainly in the 1950s, known for their wit, elegance, and satire. She also wrote some novels and, later in life, became a respected crossword-puzzle constructor. A number of her magazine stories are now in the public domain.
The library offers her public-domain stories, including 'The Vilbar Party,' 'The Doorway,' 'The Most Sentimental Man,' 'Collector's Item,' and 'My Fair Planet.' These are witty, imaginative examples of 1950s magazine science fiction. We include the public-domain titles.
Smith wrote clever, often humorous and satirical science fiction with a light, sophisticated touch, alongside more thoughtful tales. Her stories frequently poked gentle fun at human nature and social conventions through science-fictional situations. Her wit set her apart in the magazines of her day.
'The Vilbar Party' and 'The Most Sentimental Man' are charming, witty starting points among the public-domain stories. They capture her humour and elegance. All are short and quick to read.
Yes — alongside her science-fiction writing, Smith became well known later in life as a skilled constructor of crossword puzzles, including for major publications. Her cleverness with language served both pursuits. It's a distinctive footnote to her literary career.
Smith lived from 1922 to 2000. She was most active as a science-fiction writer in the 1950s, when the stories offered here first appeared. She later became known for her crossword puzzles.
Smith's public-domain stories are freely available. Older editions keep the original text. Here you can read a story free in clear modern English, and read or listen with a membership.
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