The Stainless Steel Rat
What is The Stainless Steel Rat about?
The Stainless Steel Rat (1961) is the first novel in Harry Harrison’s beloved science fiction series about "Slippery Jim" DiGriz, a charming, brilliant criminal in a future where crime has become nearly impossible. In a society so well-organized that criminal behavior is almost extinct, Jim is a master thief who views his profession as an art form. When he discovers a more dangerous criminal building a battleship, he is recruited by the Special Corps—a law enforcement agency staffed by reformed criminals—to stop her. The novel is a rollicking space adventure combining humor, action, and a charismatic antihero.
Main themes in The Stainless Steel Rat
Science fiction humor
The presence of science fiction humor in The Stainless Steel Rat connects readers to its enduring relevance.
Antihero
The theme of antihero weaves through The Stainless Steel Rat, adding depth to its narrative.
Space adventure
In The Stainless Steel Rat, space adventure provides a lens for understanding the story's core message.
Criminal mastermind
In The Stainless Steel Rat, criminal mastermind provides a lens for understanding the story's core message.
Why The Stainless Steel Rat is still relevant today
The Stainless Steel Rat is a classic of humorous science fiction that launched one of the genre’s most popular series. Jim DiGriz is one of SF’s most beloved antiheroes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Stainless Steel Rat about?
A charming master criminal in a future society where crime is nearly extinct is recruited to stop a dangerous villain building a battleship.
Is it part of a series?
Yes, it is the first of twelve Stainless Steel Rat novels, but it works perfectly as a standalone.
Is it humorous?
Very much so. Jim DiGriz’s wit and the absurd situations make it one of the most entertaining SF novels around.
Can I read it free online?
Yes, the complete novel is available free on TextStack.