William Olaf Stapledon - known as Olaf Stapledon - was a British philosopher and author of several influential works of science fiction. Stapledon’s writings directly influenced C.S. Lewis, John Maynard Smith, Arthur C. Clarke, Bertrand Russell, and indirectly influenced many others.

“Olaf Stapledon was one of the most creative thinkers of our time. His influence on philosophy and science fiction is incalculable.” - Greg Bear

Last and First Men is an imitation history of mankind written from the point of view of a new species of humanity two billion years in the future. Considered by some to be one of the best Science Fiction books ever written, Last and First men is ambitious in its broad scope and pioneering ideas. (ed. We recommend that you skip lightly over the first 50 pages).