This book collects 25 of PKD's short stories from the early 1950s. Like most of his early work it's inconsistent. To those who are familiar with his writing, the brilliance that would later come is sometimes apparent. However, the young PKD was still growing as a writer and hadn't quite found his voice yet. The best stories in this collection are great reads. Unfortunately, there are several stories here that are just filler and are significant only because PKD wrote them. If you are not familiar with PKD's work some of these stories will be a great introduction. But most of them are far from perfect.
Here are a few high and low points:
Roog: This is a fun little story. The men who come to collect your garbage are not what they seem, and only your dog knows why.
The Gun: This is one of those filler stories, cause it has not point to it. I guess PKD needed a quick buck.
Beyond Lies the Wub:More filler.
The Skull: Some of these stories could have been made into episodes of the Twilight Zone, like this one. An interesting take on the story of Christ. The premise is not very original by today's standards, but still a good story.
The Preserving Machine: Probably the worst story in the collection.
Expendable: One of the best stories in the collection is also the shortest; only 5 pages. It is also one of the funniest. Next time you see an ant, beware.
The Variable Man: Another really good story. A man from the past comes into the future when the earth is at war with an alien empire. PKD in full control here.
The Indefatigable Frog: PKD's comical side is pretty unique and fun.
The Short Happy Life of the Brown Oxford: The title story is kinda cute, but nothing special.
Meddler:Another of the "Twilight Zone" type stories. Many writers have speculated about the end of the world. But only PKD would think that the end would be caused by butterflies.
Paycheck: The recent John Woo film is based on this story. A fascinating premise is marred by poor execution. All the later PKD trademarks are here: evil all controling government, paranoia, and normal people trapped by circumstances beyond their control. Had PKD written this story 10 years later it would probably come out much better.
Colony: More paranoia, but this time PKD uses it to comic effect. The colonists try to evacuate while naked. One of the best in the collection.
Prize Ship: Time travel stories usually have a twist; so does this one. I laughed when I finished it.
Nanny: A not so subtle take on the cold war arms race. Interesting, but could have been edited down some more.