Before…12:01…and After

Before...12:01...and After is a diverse short story collection published in 1996 by science fiction author Richard A. Lupoff. The collection spans multiple genres including science fiction, fantasy, horror, and mystery, bringing together stories previously published in prominent magazines like Fantasy and Science Fiction and Isaac Asimov's Science Fiction Magazine. The book contains 24 distinct stories along with introductory material by Robert Silverberg and Lupoff himself, plus a bibliography. The stories range from supernatural encounters to time-bending scenarios, with titles like "12:01 P.M." and "The Digital Wristwatch of Philip K. Dick" suggesting themes of temporal manipulation. This collection represents Lupoff's ability to work across genre boundaries while exploring fundamental questions about reality, time, and human nature. The varied selection demonstrates his versatility as a writer who can transition between horror, science fiction and mystery while maintaining a consistent narrative voice.

Readers view this collection as an entertaining mix of science fiction stories exploring alternate histories and time travel themes. Several reviewers note that while not every story hits the mark, the collection maintains interest through varied scenarios and creative premises. Readers appreciated: - Fresh takes on historical "what if" scenarios - Stand-out stories "12:01" and "After the Dreamtime" - Clear writing style that focuses on plot - Mix of humor and serious themes Common criticisms: - Uneven quality between stories - Some dated cultural references - A few stories feel rushed or underdeveloped Ratings: Goodreads: 3.4/5 (28 ratings) Amazon: 3.5/5 (6 reviews) Multiple readers highlighted "12:01" as the strongest entry, with one Amazon reviewer noting it as "worth the price of admission alone." A Goodreads reviewer criticized that some stories "read like writing exercises rather than fully realized fiction."

Mirrorshades: The Cyberpunk Anthology edited by Bruce Sterling This anthology crosses genre boundaries with stories about technology and human identity from multiple prominent science fiction authors who blend noir, horror, and sci-fi elements.

The Best of Robert Silverberg edited by Robert Silverberg The collection spans decades of Silverberg's career with stories that blend science fiction concepts with psychological depth and temporal exploration.

Dangerous Visions edited by Harlan Ellison This groundbreaking anthology combines experimental storytelling with genre-defying narratives that push boundaries in science fiction and fantasy.

The Dark Descent edited by David G. Hartwell This collection brings together horror and dark fantasy stories that demonstrate the intersection of supernatural and psychological elements across different writing styles.

Her Smoke Rose Up Forever by James Tiptree Jr. The book presents stories that merge science fiction with psychological horror while examining time, identity, and human relationships.

🔸 "12:01 P.M.," one of the collection's most famous stories, was adapted into both an Academy Award-nominated short film and a TV movie starring Jonathan Silverman. 🔸 Richard A. Lupoff worked as an editor at Canaveral Press, where he helped bring many of Edgar Rice Burroughs' previously unpublished works to light. 🔸 The story "The Digital Wristwatch of Philip K. Dick" pays homage to the legendary sci-fi author, whom Lupoff knew personally during his time in Berkeley, California. 🔸 Fedogan & Bremer, the publisher, was known for producing high-quality limited editions of supernatural and horror fiction, making this collection particularly sought after by collectors. 🔸 Robert Silverberg, who wrote the foreword, is a Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame inductee who has won multiple Hugo and Nebula awards.