New Worlds Science Fiction No. 55

New Worlds, Vol. 19, No. 55 (January 1957)

This issue features a novelette and five short stories. Lan Wright's "And Earthly Power" is a complex narrative following protagonist Laraby, who arrives on the planet Xenon with a single mission: to assassinate a man named Vincent Audus within three weeks. Provided minimal information by his superior, Laraby must navigate an unfamiliar city populated largely by human colonists and the native Xenians—a mild, nomadic race with distinctive features including large lidless eyes and beaked faces. The story establishes tension through Laraby's careful infiltration and surveillance activities.

Short fiction includes Arthur C. Clarke's "Royal Prerogative," J.G. Ballard's "Build-Up," Nita Polinda's "Prodigy," and Alan Guthrie's "Thirty-Seven Times." James White's "Patrol" concerns an insect invasion and its logistical warfare implications.

Articles address Halley's Comet and a technical piece on "Rockoons, Drainpipes and JATOs." The editorial discusses the British Science Fiction Book Club's progress and anticipated recession in science fiction publishing.