Under the Green Star

Under the Green Star is a sword-and-planet science fantasy novel published in 1972. The story follows a disabled man who discovers an ancient technique for astral projection that allows him to travel to a distant world beneath a luminous green star. On this alien planet, he inhabits the body of a warrior and encounters strange creatures, floating cities, and a society reminiscent of Edgar Rice Burroughs' adventure tales. The narrative includes sword fights, aerial battles, and encounters with both allies and adversaries in an exotic setting. The protagonist faces tests of courage and skill while pursuing a quest that spans multiple locations across this mysterious world. His journey brings him into contact with the world's complex political dynamics and varied inhabitants. The novel explores themes of transformation and second chances through its blend of science fiction concepts and heroic fantasy elements. Its approach to consciousness and identity reflects both pulp adventure traditions and metaphysical possibilities.

Readers describe this as a straightforward sword-and-planet adventure that pays homage to Edgar Rice Burroughs. Most reviews note its short length and fast pace. Readers appreciated: - Quick, action-focused plotting - Colorful descriptions of the alien world - Lack of complexity makes it easy to follow - Nostalgic pulp fiction style Common criticisms: - Characters lack depth - Writing can be repetitive - Plot feels derivative of other planetary romances - Too short to fully develop its ideas Ratings: Goodreads: 3.4/5 (154 ratings) Amazon: 3.7/5 (21 ratings) Several readers called it "fun but forgettable." One reviewer noted "it reads like ERB-lite - similar style but without the same impact." Another said "perfect for when you want simple escapism without having to think too hard." The book's short length (128 pages) came up frequently in reviews, with some feeling it worked well as a quick read while others wanted more development.

A Princess of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs A Civil War veteran's consciousness travels to Mars where he encounters alien civilizations and battles for the heart of a princess.

The Dream-Quest of Unknown Kadath by H. P. Lovecraft A man journeys through a dreamworld to find a majestic sunset city, encountering strange creatures and ancient gods.

Almuric by Robert E. Howard An Earth man transported to a savage planet must fight primitive tribes and monstrous beings to survive in his new world.

The Mad Planet by Murray Leinster In a future Earth transformed by climate change, a human navigates through giant fungi and evolved insects to rescue a tribal leader's daughter.

Planet of Adventure by Jack Vance A space traveler becomes stranded on a distant planet where multiple alien races compete for dominance amid the ruins of an ancient civilization.

🌟 "Under the Green Star" was published in 1972 as the first book in Lin Carter's Green Star series, which eventually grew to five novels. 🌟 The book's plot draws inspiration from Edgar Rice Burroughs' John Carter series, featuring a similar concept of astral projection to another world. 🌟 Lin Carter was not only an author but also edited the influential Ballantine Adult Fantasy series, which helped revive interest in fantasy literature during the 1960s and '70s. 🌟 The book's setting features a unique world where massive trees grow miles high, and civilizations exist in the branches rather than on the ground. 🌟 Carter wrote this novel while working as an advertising copywriter in New York City, crafting his fantasy worlds during lunch breaks and after hours.