Title: The Amphibian
Author: Alexander Belyaev
Publisher: Raduga Publishers – Moscow
Edition & Year: 1986 Edition
Pages & Size: 126 pages · Hardcover · 7 × 9 in
The Amphibian, written by pioneering Russian author Alexander Belyaev, is one of the foundational works of 20th-century speculative fiction. First published in 1928 and presented here in a finely produced 1986 hardcover edition by Raduga Publishers, Moscow, the novel blends scientific fantasy with emotional depth, crafting a tale that is as thrilling as it is thought-provoking.
At its heart lies the story of Ichthyander, a boy whose body has been surgically altered to survive underwater, granting him remarkable freedom yet separating him from the human world above. As he navigates the vibrant life of the ocean and the dangers of coastal society, Belyaev uses Ichthyander’s dual nature to pose enduring questions about progress, ethics, and belonging. The narrative weaves together daring escapes, tender romance, and tense encounters with those who seek to exploit the “amphibian man,” creating a rich tapestry of adventure and moral reflection.
This Raduga edition preserves the clarity and lyricism of Belyaev’s prose while presenting the text in a generously sized 7 × 9-inch volume, ideal for collectors and readers of Russian literature in translation. Its 126 pages deliver an unforgettable journey through coral reefs, secret laboratories, and human hearts, making it a standout piece for anyone interested in classic science fiction, ethical dilemmas in science, or the early Soviet literary imagination.
Whether approached as an underwater adventure, a romantic parable, or an allegory of humanity’s search for freedom, The Amphibian continues to captivate modern audiences. Its blend of poetic description, imaginative science, and suspenseful plotting ensures its place among the great works that shaped speculative storytelling.
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Landmark Russian science-fiction novel by Alexander Belyaev
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Presents the iconic character Ichthyander, the “amphibian man”
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Engages with themes of scientific ethics, identity, and liberty
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1986 Raduga Publishers hardcover, 126 pages, 7 × 9 in
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A collectible and compelling volume for fans of classic speculative fiction
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