A Work of Human Hands Paperback – February 27, 2026

The exploits of the Old Man span more than a century. Half-remembered, hidden from history, printed as pulp tales, his adventures have entertained and inspired generations. They have also set in motion conspiracy theories, legends, attacks by malevolent foes, and even worship. These five linked stories of a hero who has gone by many names—with his changing cast of aides—reach from his earliest days to days yet to come.Praised by fans of classic pulp heroes as well as by readers of contemporary science fiction and fantasy, Preston's stories of the Old Man first appeared in the magazine Asimov's Science Fiction, forming a narrative arc that shuttles back and forth across the decades but also tells one titanic tale. At the urging of readers, these stories now appear together in print for the first time. Read more