Big Planet books in order

Q: "How many books are in the Big Planet series?"

"There are two books in the Big Planet series, published between 1952 and 1975."

Q: "What is the first book in the Big Planet series?"

"The first book in the Big Planet series is Big Planet, published in 1952."

Q: "What makes Big Planet unusual as a setting?"

"Big Planet is a world many times larger than Earth with lower gravity, no metals, and a huge variety of human societies scattered across its surface. The lack of metal forces the inhabitants to develop technologies based on organic materials, creating a distinctive pre-industrial feel despite being set in the future."

Reading order

#	Title	Published	Author	Buy on Amazon
1	Big Planet	1952	Jack Vance	Buy
2	Showboat World	1975	Jack Vance	Buy

The Big Planet duology by Jack Vance consists of Big Planet (1952) and Showboat World (1975). Both are set on an enormous, low-gravity planet that has been colonized by humans who have splintered into hundreds of diverse cultures.

Big Planet follows a diplomatic party trying to cross the planet’s surface after their spaceship is sabotaged. Showboat World, set later, follows a showboat operator navigating the planet’s waterways and eccentric communities. Both novels showcase Vance’s talent for creating varied, detailed societies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many books are in the Big Planet series?

There are two books in the Big Planet series, published between 1952 and 1975.

What is the first book in the Big Planet series?

The first book in the Big Planet series is Big Planet, published in 1952.

What makes Big Planet unusual as a setting?

Big Planet is a world many times larger than Earth with lower gravity, no metals, and a huge variety of human societies scattered across its surface. The lack of metal forces the inhabitants to develop technologies based on organic materials, creating a distinctive pre-industrial feel despite being set in the future.

Reading order#

Frequently Asked Questions

Reading order