Alexei Panshin – Rite of Passage - Easton Press – 1991 Limited Collector’s Edition Edition note: Published by The Easton Press as part of their Collector’s Edition series, bound in genuine leather and featuring new artwork by Debbie Hughes. Includes an introduction by Edward Bryant written exclusively for this edition. Introduction: Originally published in 1968, Rite of Passage is one of the defining works of mid-20th-century science fiction and winner of the Nebula Award for Best Novel. Set in a future where humanity survives on vast starships after the destruction of Earth, the story follows Mia Havero, a young girl coming of age within a society governed by strict traditions and moral codes. At the heart of the novel is the Trial — a dangerous survival test on a colony world undertaken by all adolescents as their transition into adulthood. Through Mia’s eyes, Panshin explores themes of responsibility, prejudice, personal growth, and the ethics of a society that believes itself superior to the people it oversees. Both intimate and philosophical, the novel remains a cornerstone of character-driven science fiction. Content: This edition includes Edward Bryant’s thoughtful introduction, offering historical and literary context for the novel’s creation and reception. Debbie Hughes contributes full-color frontispiece artwork and additional design elements. The text follows Mia’s journey from sheltered adolescence to moral awareness as she confronts both the dangers of the Trial and the uncomfortable truths of her society. Panshin’s narrative blends adventure, introspection, and social critique, making the novel as relevant today as when it was first published. Features: Publisher: The Easton Press, Norwalk, Connecticut Year: 1991 Author: Alexei Panshin Illustrator: Debbie Hughes Edition: Collector’s Edition Binding: Full red genuine leather with gilt stamped motifs on spine and boards Endpapers: Moiré silk Page edges: Gilt Ribbon marker: White satin Paper: Archival-quality, acid-neutral paper Condition: Fine condition. Clean and crisp pages, solid binding, bright gilt, and minimal signs of handling. A well-preserved copy. Shipping: Carefully packed and shipped with tracking number.