Prema zvijezdama

by L. Ron Hubbard, Mario Jović (Translator)

Nakon očeva bankrota inženjer-kontrolor Alan Corday, u potrazi za boljom budućnošću, odlučuje potražiti posao na Marsu, u službi novog lorda. Međutim, na prevaru završava u letjelici "Pas neba", čiji je zadatak da održava vezu između Zemlje i kolonija u drugim zvjezdanim sustavima. No, uskoro će otkriti pravi razlog svog boravka na letjelici - postao je jednim od "ljudi dugog puta" - putnika pod narkohipnozom, žrtvovanih za potrebe znanstvenih eksperimenata...

Genres: Science Fiction, Audiobook, Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy

182 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1950

About the author

Author, Humanitarian and Visionary

“I like to help others and count it as my greatest pleasure in life to see a person free himself of the shadows which darken his days.”

—L. Ron Hubbard

L. Ron Hubbard is universally acclaimed as the single most influential author and humanitarian of this modern age. His definitive works on the mind and spirit—comprising over 350 million copies in circulation and more than 40 international bestsellers—have resulted in a legacy benefiting millions and a movement spanning all cultures.

To learn more about L. Ron Hubbard visit lronhubbard.org

Reviews

[Craig · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was halfway through this one before I figured out why it seemed familiar; I first read it years ago as a small Ace paperback with the title Return to Tomorrow. It was originally published in John W. Campbell's Astounding SF magazine in 1950. It's a relatively short and bleak story detailing the problems of less than faster than light interstellar travel, and thus, by extension, one-way time-travel. It's quite dark, with one meanness and disaster following another, and none of the humor or good fellowship that marks Hubbard's best stories. None of the characters are likeable, and while the plot and scientific arguments are well conceived I can't say it's among his best genre work.

[Tasha]

Looking forward to reading this

[Luciano Bernaroli · Rating 3 out of 5]

Per quanto non nutra particolare simpatia per l'autore ho trovato questo classicone un... classicone.
Ho apprezzato che non fosse da un lato una sequenza di tecnobubble e dall'altro un trattato filosofico ma un equilibrato romanzo che, però e purtroppo, porta i segni della vecchiaia.
Contestualizzato all'epoca è sicuramente una gran bella lettura, ma oggi rimane molto qualcosa di già visto, stravisto, già sentito e già sviscerato in tutti i modi.
Ci sono almeno 4 o 5 episodi di ogni serie di fantascienza che seguono la falsariga dei concetti affrontati in questo romanzo.
Onore al merito dei padri.

[Beary Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 This was a neat sci-fi book that you can easily read or listen to in one sitting. It’s one of those stories that make you think deeper while still having fun with the overall plot. I was engaged from the very beginning and found the story held my interest until the very end. I appreciated how the characters changed throughout the story due to the events that occurred. I don’t want to spoil anything, just know I’d recommend it!

[Harsh Tyagi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alan Corday is a man on the edge, driven by desperation after losing his family fortune and the woman he loves. In his search for redemption, he is pulled into a perilous journey aboard the Hound of Heaven, a spacecraft bound for the farthest reaches of the universe. The journey is a harrowing one, traveling at the speed of light, time bends, and when Corday finally returns, the world he once knew has passed him by. He finds himself confronting a discovery that challenges everything he believes.

The plot is both ambitious and thought-provoking, and it took me on an adventurous ride through space and time. The author has a remarkable ability to blend the grand scope of science fiction with intimate, personal struggles. The transition from Alan's immediate desire to escape his failures to the deep philosophical revelations of space and time felt natural, almost as if it was always meant to happen.

The author crafts a universe that feels vast and impersonal, where the passage of time isn’t just a concept but a force that changes lives and perspectives. This is not just about exploring space; it’s about the discovery of self in a universe that doesn’t care. The pacing of the story felt right, and the shifts in Alan's emotional journey resonated deeply. What struck me the most was how the story balances the external, sci-fi elements with the internal, existential crisis of the protagonist.

Reading this felt like being swept away on a journey where the stakes weren't just about survival, but about grappling with time and the inevitable changes it brings. The depth of the protagonist's character drew me in, and the ultimate twist left me thinking long after I finished the book. It’s one of those stories that stays with us, not because of the vastness of space, but because of how small and fragile human life feels in comparison.

[Empress of Bookingham · Rating 4 out of 5]

“One day man will conquer time.”

To The Stars, L. Ron Hubbard

~~-

'To The Stars' is a captivating science fiction adventure that follows Alan Corday, a pilot driven by love, a desire to be financially stable, a relentless curiosity and a yearning to explore the unknown.

Through the eyes of the protagonist, Corday, we experience the thrill and danger of space travel, the complexities of time dilation, and the emotional struggles of a man torn between two worlds. Corday isn't just a daredevil; he's a resourceful and determined protagonist whose human flaws make him relatable. The supporting characters, while perhaps not deeply developed, serve to highlight Corday's journey and the challenges he faces.

The "science" in the book leans more towards imaginative concepts than hard facts and it doesn't take you out of the tale for the thrill will keep you turning the pages. It also reflects the optimistic, space-faring spirit of the era in which it was written.

The themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the quest for knowledge reverberate throughout the book. But it's that of fate that left me with lots of questions at the end of the book along with the curiosity of what's next.

This gripping tale emphasizes ingenuity and the power of human intellect to overcome technological hurdles. Some thing that was true then and so now. Beyond the adventure and the speculative science, *To The Stars* ultimately delivers a message of hope and the importance of pushing boundaries, both personal and scientific.

Hubbard's vivid storytelling and imaginative world-building makes this a compelling read for sci-fi enthusiasts and casual readers alike. It's a quick and enjoyable read with a lasting positive impact.


Pss.... The audiobook was a total blast: with a full cast and sound effects.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

The audio is a whole other experience! I recommend you listen to it also. Told in a crisp, clear, and popping voice the audio will transport you right into Hubbard’s world. (I’ve never heard an audio like it before!)

Seriously, loved this one! Among all of his works, this one hit me the most. I was blown away by the plot, storytelling, and gripped the entire time. Highly recommend this to readers! Blew past my every expectation.

It’s also super short so you can read in under 4 hours!

[Ron · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has got to be one of the best science fictions books ever. It is a true classic. I first read it in 1971 when I found it in the library. I have read it numerous times since.

I have often said that the true test of really well written fiction is being able to pick up a book you've already read, open it to any page and be right back into the story as if you'd been reading it all along. This book has passed that test over and over for me.

If you've never read it you have a gaping whole in your Sci-Fi library.

[Nev March · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sci Fi novels need us to orient to a new time and place with different world rules and norms. This story pulls you right in.
The key question, though, is why is a smart young man captured by a press gang on a starship, which will return, if at all, in a few decades?
The denizens of the ship function as a dysfunctional family, led by Captain Jocelyn. Although the story is straightforward, with minimal twists, the impact of the reveal is powerful.

It’s clearly written some decades ago, which is quite visible from the supporting roles assigned to women. Still, a brilliant concept based on a seminal line from Einstein theory, as a mass approaches the speed of light, time on that mass approaches infinity. Therefore a year in ship time approximates a dozen on earth, or more. This difference makes a vast impact. What do the space travelers want? Why do they live in this strange way? The story offers some mind mending answers.

[Book_withquotes · Rating 4 out of 5]

To The Stars by L. Ron Hubbard is a classic science fiction adventure that follows Alan Corday, a pilot who joins the crew of a starship bound for distant planets. Corday’s journey is filled with unexpected challenges, from navigating the dangers of space travel to confronting his mortality.

Hubbard’s imaginative world-building and engaging storytelling create a thrilling and suspenseful narrative. The book explores ambition, sacrifice, and the human desire for exploration and discovery. While the scientific aspects of the story may not always align with modern understanding, the core themes of human resilience and the pursuit of knowledge remain timeless.

To The Stars is a captivating and enduring science fiction classic that resonates with readers today. Its fast-paced action, intriguing characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a must-read for fans of the genre.

[Mike · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was actually quite surprised by this book. Even though it was written after L. Ron began his descent into all things Scientology, I have to praise it for it's attempt to deal with the potentially harsh realities of near light speed travel. Apparently, it was this book that put the whole concept of time dilation into popular awareness. It isn't all roses though. The story seems to skip around a lot and there's a lot of what can only be called "pulp" tendencies to it. But, for attempting to write sci-fi that somewhat conforms to the laws of physics, and for leaving Scientologist hogwash out of the book, I find myself giving this book a much higher rating than I thought I would. Definitely worth a read, no matter what you think of L. Ron.

[John Goodwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the grittier science fiction stories I have read. It deals with the extreme emotions of space travel and is based on the time dilation principle that as mass approaches the speed of light, time approaches zero. So those who are outbound to the stars in craft approaching the speed of light return to a much aged Earth relative to them. So their people are gone after returning from a voyage that perhaps only took them a few months. I really felt for the voyagers and could see why the Captain, did what he did, and how the real purpose for these ships made for a very surprise ending.

[James Mourgos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cool scifi story about Alan Corday who was shanghaid aboard the "Hound of Heaven." He soon learns of the long passage and the cold equations by Einstein that predict the time away from Earth is multiplied many times when you are hitting at or near the speed of light.

The adventurer has his tough times with the Captain Jocelyn, visits strange colonies, one taken over by aliens, and the Earth changes as the centuries roll on.

Fascinating study of how a man changes and how the Earth may change as it got more decadent as the centuries passed. A must-read, could pass for a Young Adult novel.

Recommended.

[Maradox · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was nice, there's no privileged bullsh*t like you find in a lot of the sci fi stuff. i really liked how it broached the topic of time dilation in near-lightspeed travel. another good book similar to this is Poul Anderson's Tau Zero.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

What if you could spend your single lifetime witnessing thousands of years of interplanetary history unfold? This is the central premise of To the Stars, a science fiction novel by L. Ron Hubbard. While the concept is thrilling, it’s not for the faint of heart. The story follows the crew of the Hound of Heaven, a ragtag group of space explorers embarking on what is known as "The Long Passage." This journey involves traversing the galaxy, but due to the relativistic effects of time dilation—where time passes more slowly the closer you are to massive objects—hundreds or even thousands of years pass on Earth during what feels like only a few years for the crew.

The protagonist, Alan Corday, is thrust into this extraordinary existence against his will. Initially, he resists the reality of his situation, clinging to the hope of returning home before his beloved grows old and forgets him. However, when the Hound of Heaven finally makes its way back to Earth, Corday is confronted with a world that is utterly unrecognizable. Cities have transformed, societies have evolved (or crumbled), and the names of places he once knew are lost to history. Forced to accept his new reality, Corday commits himself to the ship and its enigmatic Captain, embracing his role in this endless journey through time and space.

What makes this story so compelling is its emphasis on the human experience. While the narrative is told exclusively from Corday’s perspective, we gain insight into the lives of the other crew members through his observations. The mission itself is grueling: the crew must navigate the challenges of interstellar travel, identify valuable cargo on distant planets, and sacrifice any semblance of a linear, grounded life on Earth. Yet, the opportunity to witness the rise and fall of civilizations over millennia is nothing short of mesmerizing. The novel captures the awe and weight of such an existence, blending the personal struggles of the crew with the grand sweep of cosmic history.

Corday’s character undergoes a profound transformation throughout the story. Initially driven by a desire to return home, he gradually develops a deeper understanding of the significance of the crew’s mission. His journey is one of acceptance and growth, as he comes to terms with the sacrifices required to be part of something greater than himself. The novel also explores the broader implications of their travels, touching on the civilizations they encounter across the galaxy. However, these civilizations are presented from a distant, almost peripheral vantage point, keeping the focus squarely on the crew’s experiences. Whether they’re facing hostile alien populations, navigating war-torn planets, or returning to an Earth ravaged by time and conflict, the crew’s survival is always at the forefront.

Hubbard’s storytelling is both simple and profound. At just 210 pages, To the Stars is a quick read, but it’s packed with thought-provoking ideas that linger long after the final page. The novel raises questions about the nature of time, the fragility of human civilization, and the sacrifices required to explore the unknown. It’s a story that invites reflection, and I found myself turning over its themes and implications in my mind for days after finishing it.

In To the Stars, Hubbard weaves a fascinating paradigm—one that combines the intimate struggles of its characters with the vast, awe-inspiring scale of interstellar exploration. It’s a tale that challenges readers to consider what it means to live a life unmoored from the familiar, and to witness the relentless march of history from the outside looking in. For anyone interested in science fiction that blends action, philosophy, and human drama, this is a book that shouldn’t be missed.

[Avinash Priya · Rating 5 out of 5]

To The Stars: A Classic Sci-Fi Adventure of Daring Space Exploration is a captivating and reflective experience set in deep space. The protagonist, Alan Corday, a young engineer, is suddenly thrust into the Hound of Heaven, a ship heading for the stars which will distance him from all that he is familiar with. What seems to be a straightforward plan to work on Mars quickly transforms into a far more perilous endeavor; a quest where the antagonist is none other than time. The book delves deep into the psychological impact of space travel, forcing Alan to confront the question of what is important when everything he loves is at risk of forever changing.


The book was very well structured and interlaced action with deep sentimental and nostalgic moments. The futuristic world is a stark contrast, with a warped morality filled with people desperate to live. Captain Jocelyn is the captain of the Hound of Heaven, and his commanding presence makes him simultaneously alluring and frightening. He is deeply obsessive, and the unforgiving manner in which he instructs Alan forces him to cope in fight or flight situation. The ship’s crew, composed of eclectic misfits, adds an additional element of suspense and conflict as the readers are left in question regarding who is trustworthy.


Aside from the suspense and drama, the tale makes one reflect on the price of exploration. While space comes with the prospect of new beginnings, it also offers loss. The concept of time dilation where those who move at light speed.

[Kriti Dalmia · Rating 4 out of 5]

To The Stars is a thrilling science fiction adventure by L. Ron Hubbard that blends fast-paced action with thought-provoking themes. Set in a future where Earth is on the brink of interstellar exploration, the story follows the journey of a determined protagonist, Alan. As he navigates through danger, space battles, and political intrigue, Hubbard takes readers on an exhilarating ride through a universe brimming with mysterious planets, alien species, and the eternal pursuit of freedom.

What really stands out in this book is Hubbard's ability to create a vivid, immersive world. The imagery is rich and the pacing never slows, keeping you hooked from start to finish. His writing brings space exploration to life in a way that makes it feel tangible and exciting, with unexpected twists around every corner.

While the book occasionally leans heavily into its action-driven plot, it’s the underlying philosophical undertones about human nature, freedom, and destiny that elevate it beyond a simple adventure. To The Stars is a quick read.

If you're a fan of classic sci-fi with a fast pace and a touch of philosophy, To The Stars is definitely worth picking up.

[Frida Hemborg · Rating 4 out of 5]

”To the stars” is a true classic sci-fi, and I really mean classic (it’s celebrating 75 years in 2025!) The first high (is it called high in sci-fi as well?), sci-fi I’ve ever read, and I’m intrigued to read more! L. Ron Hubbard was a true artist with his words, gorgeous prose and clever remarks. Extremely interesting and captivating plot, where you truly don’t know what’s gonna happen next. Alan, our protagonist, finds himself essentially kidnapped onboard a space ship who is on ”the long passage”. This basically means that a couple of months in space, is equal to like 20 years on earth. Which is also how a lot of the crew are veeeery old (like thousands of years). Intriguing to read about how earth changes every time they land, the name changes, the people in charge and just the people in general. Alan’s character arc is also very interesting to follow, how he in the end became the man he despised. I’m very glad I got to read this book, quite out of my usual comfort space when it comes to what I read. 2025 is all about new reading experiences! ✨📖☄️

[Meg · Rating 4 out of 5]

To the Stars is a 1950 scifi novel by L. Ron Hubbard about deep space travel and the social and emotional effects of time dilation.

The novel follows Alan Corday, an engineer who is forcibly recruited onto the Hound of Heaven, a faster-than-light spaceship. Jocelyn, a man deeply aware of the sacrifices inherent in lightspeed space travel, is the captain and the one who forces Alan on to the ship. The novel’s central conflict is not just an adventure story about Corday’s space-age impressment, but his realization that his travel at lightspeed results in time passing differently for those on board than those left behind.

The novel has a sense of tragedy, first as Alan is separated from his home, his girlfriend, and his whole society, and then as Alan becomes part of the system that did this to him. There’s resigned acceptance as he realizes that decades have passed without him, and even if he’s free to return to Earth, his friends are gone and his home is completely different. It’s a bleaker, darker look at the time distortion at the end of Arthur C Clarke’s The Songs of Distant Earth, too, with Loren leaving his future child in a different time scale. That felt like a hopeful ending, though. Hubbard’s depiction of time dilation was still fascinating for readers, even if sad for Alan and his crewmates (and his forgotten girlfriend…).

Some aspects of To The Stars haven’t aged very well, particularly the treatment of female characters and gender roles, which constantly remind readers that this was published in the 1950s.

[Val · Rating 4 out of 5]

what if a few months in space meant centuries had passed on earth? To the Stars dives into the mind-bending effects of time dilation, following Alan Corday, a young engineer forced aboard the Hound of Heaven. as the crew hurtles through space at near-light speeds, they return to a world that has changed beyond recognition.

this classic sci-fi novel blends adventure, existential dread, and ethical dilemmas. the writing is fast-paced, and the concept is fascinating, but some of the story’s outdated social attitudes might not sit well with modern readers.still, its exploration of loneliness, duty, and the sacrifices of space travel make it a thought-provoking read.

If you love The Forever War or Interstellar, this one’s worth a read! but be warned—it’s more melancholic than action-packed.

[Tannisa Mahanty · Rating 4 out of 5]

What if every time you came home, everything and everyone had changed beyond recognition?

That’s the unsettling reality in To the Stars by L. Ron Hubbard. This classic sci-fi novel takes the mind-bending concept of time dilation and turns it into an emotional rollercoaster. Alan, our reluctant protagonist, is forced into deep-space travel, where months aboard his ship equal decades on Earth. Each return is less of a reunion and more of a history lesson, as the world moves forward while he stays frozen in time.

Hubbard’s writing is sharp, the premise is fascinating, and the story carries an eerie, melancholic weight. However, Alan’s lack of agency makes for an unsettling start, and the novel’s 1950s roots show in its limited representation. Still, its exploration of time, change, and identity makes for a thought-provoking read.

Final Verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – A classic sci-fi tale that lingers long after the final page

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've avoided L Ron Hubbard because of the whole Scientology thing, but I really wanted to read something about time dilation, and this seemed to be the the thing to read on that topic. The crew of the "long passage" is away for tens to hundreds or thousands of Earth years at a time, and seeing the way humanity changes with each return and how the crew has to react to that, both logistically and emotionally, is really interesting. There's also an underlying question/mystery as to whether there's a greater ulterior motive at play for these long passage routes. The pacing did feel a little off, especially the way it all resolved fairly quickly at the end, but overall I enjoyed this and thought it was a quick read.

[Dana McKenzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

To the Stars
L. Ron Hubbard

I don’t get to read much sci-fi, but I always tend to read L. Ron Hubbard’s.

Do you ever read a book, that will make you stop in your tracks and think… This one did just that.

This futuristic sci-fi tells of traveling vast distances between stars and space, time and existence. I love getting to know, Alan young engineer, and was intrigued by the mysterious captain Jocelyn. Especially learning the truth about Alan‘s destiny.

This one is a classic, I hadn’t read it and tell just the other day. I guess it’s technically labeled as a space opera. Which I just love the term – I think of watching soap operas with my granny growing up.

I love the new updated galaxy press cover, and hardback book, it’s beautiful. I am a total cover snob and literally gasped when I opened the box. That silver background shines like a mirror.

[Kat Mullen]

To The Stars asks questions about leadership, time, belonging, ethics, space travel, light speed - all before humanity had ever gone into outer space in our world.

Originally published in parts in a magazine, the story is relatively short so you can read it quickly.

The story follows Alan Corday and the crew of a spaceship travelling through space, finding that while only a few years have passed on ship, hundreds of years have passed on Earth. We see what it does to them mentally and emotionally.

We see Corday’s character development from a hopeful, optimistic, and naive young man to a much rougher and meaner version.

Thank you Galaxy Press for the copy!

[Ονι · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is THE book for you, if you have ever wondered if there are any consequences for space traveling. Eventhough this book is only 200 pages, it packs a mighty punch.

I absolutely loved how simplistic this plot was eventhough the topic it explored was by no means simple. This is a must read for the old school sci-fi lovers who loves a classic, imaginative, interstellar traveling storyline.

[Timothy Biedinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a slant on time travel I have not seen, the actual time equation for moving at the speed light. Then the results! The ending was a twist and a wake-up for the human race. How long can a planet survive before life on it ceases to exist, and what of mankind?

[Abinaya Annadurai · Rating 5 out of 5]

To the Stars by L. Ron Hubbard is a captivating read about space travel. Such an interesting read with a cool concept.

The story revolves around Alan Corday. Corday is taken aboard the Hound of Heaven, a craft bound for the stars. He is on a journey at the speed of light, the world he leaves behind fast vanishing into the past. Corday's desperation to change his fate leads him into harm's way.

The Hound of Heaven approaches at the speed of light to reach its destination. But three months of traveling at that speed is equal to half a century on Earth.

The story is intriguing and emotional with a fast-paced plot. Our protagonist's main motive is to earn enough money to marry the girl he loves. However, traveling at the speed of light, offers him great adventure, but there is a price to be paid. I adored how the author had many issues, like time, belonging, leadership and ethics. The author's writing style makes everything vivid. It is a mesmerizing, timeless tale which will fascinate the readers.

Overall, I loved this book and would strongly recommend it to all.

[Lisa Albright · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is much to enjoy in this novel especially if you're a fan of space travel, what lies in the cosmos, and the theories generated regarding our solar system and beyond. The concept of the passage of time in space was incredibly fascinating, and yet sad to imagine the loved ones left behind may not be there when you return.

This is a science fiction novel that reads like an adventure in space. Alan Corday is a intriguing character that needs money, is taken by Captain Jocelyn and his crew, and just wants to get back to Earth so he can marry his sweetheart. He is quick thinking, adept at fitting in with the other captives, and capable of solid leadership as they navigate their way through space.
This is an older book, but I felt like the author really captured the motivations that drive us as humans whatever the century.

I was fortunate to have the opportunity to listen to the audiobook and I loved the narration and sound effects. It really added to the experience and I loved feeling like I was on the journey too.


I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Kara (Books.and.salt) · Rating 4 out of 5]

To the Stars was published 75 years ago this year! I love a good dark, bleak science fiction and this story brought tragedy after tragedy to its main character. Alan Corday is a prisoner on the starship Hound Of Heaven, traveling at nearly the speed of light through space, longing to return home to Earth. But with the passage of time sped up, Corday has no hope to see the Earth he remembers ever again. To the Stars is a short, quick read that is sure to get you thinking!!

[Lizzie Morse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that this book was told through Alan's point of view, and how his thinking changed the longer he was in space. I'm towards the end of the show Lost, and I see a lot of the same comparisons in there as this story. Having the mindset of being a part of something that is bigger than one person. It really makes you think about what you are reading and how you look at your life on this Earth. At first, Alan wanted to get home, but once he returned home everything changed. It was almost a different planet with how much things were different. I loved this one- if you're looking for a book that makes you go "huh" and makes you think about life, this is the one for you!