The Collected Stories of Philip K. Dick, Vol. Two: Adjustment Team (1952-1953)

This second in a five-volume series contains 27 of the late author's stories, featuring well-known classics such as "Second Variety" and "Adjustment Team," both of which were adapted into screenplays. Also noteworthy are more obscure works like "Prominent Author" and "The Trouble with Bubbles." Dick demonstrates a talent for the uncomfortable and paranoid, as is the case in the heavy-handed civil rights parable, "James P. Crow." The collection juxtaposes minor and significant works, which allows the reader to observe the young author's abilities as they develop from story to story. With cover art by Bill Sienkiewicz and a full chapter of endnotes about the stories, fanatics will enjoy this substantial volume. (Sept.)