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Zarkon - Lord of the Unknown #3
The Volcano Ogre: Zarkon
VERY GOOD-good +-BOOK/VERY GOOD-good +-DUST JACKET, STATED 1ST EDITION. Hardcover science fiction. Book is NOT SIGNED OR AUTOGRAPHED. Dust jacket has minor shelf, rubbing and light edge wear, with chipping to head and heel of spine. In very good, unread or lightly read condition, not price clipped, not library or book club edition, but is remainder marked across top fore edge. Bottom for edge is lightly foxed. Seller is a lifelong book collector and each edition comes directly from his 35,000+ volume collection! Orders are shipped every business day using USPS Media Mail for all U S. orders. Orders shipped from Grover Beach, California. 93433Thank You! DGS 2049
177 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1976
1 person is currently reading
38 people want to read
About the author
Lin Carter
426 books171 followersLin Carter was an American author, editor, and critic best known for his influential role in fantasy literature during the mid-20th century. Born in St. Petersburg, Florida, he developed an early passion for myth, adventure stories, and imaginative fiction, drawing inspiration from authors such as Edgar Rice Burroughs, Robert E. Howard, H. P. Lovecraft, and J. R. R. Tolkien. After serving in the U.S. Army, Carter attended Columbia University, where he honed his literary skills and deepened his knowledge of classical and medieval literature, myth, and folklore — elements that would become central to his work.
Carter authored numerous novels, short stories, and critical studies, often working within the sword-and-sorcery and high fantasy traditions. His own creations, such as the “Thongor of Lemuria” series, paid homage to pulp-era adventure fiction while adding his distinctive voice and world-building style. His nonfiction book Tolkien: A Look Behind The Lord of the Rings was one of the first major studies of Tolkien’s work and its mythological roots, and it helped establish Carter as a knowledgeable commentator on fantasy literature.
Beyond his own writing, Carter was a central figure in bringing classic and forgotten works of fantasy back into print. As editor of the Ballantine Adult Fantasy series from 1969 to 1974, he curated and introduced dozens of volumes, reintroducing readers to authors such as William Morris, Lord Dunsany, E. R. Eddison, and James Branch Cabell. His introductions not only contextualized these works historically and literarily but also encouraged a new generation to explore the breadth of the fantasy tradition.
Carter was also active in the shared literary universe of the “Cthulhu Mythos,” expanding upon the creations of H. P. Lovecraft and other members of the “Lovecraft Circle.” His collaborations and solo contributions in this genre further cemented his reputation as both a creative writer and a literary preservationist.
In addition to fiction and criticism, Carter was an active member of several science fiction and fantasy organizations, including the Science Fiction Writers of America. He frequently appeared at conventions, where he was known for his enthusiasm, deep knowledge of the genre, and willingness to mentor aspiring writers.
Though sometimes critiqued for the derivative nature of some of his work, Carter’s influence on the fantasy revival of the late 20th century remains significant. His combination of creative output, editorial vision, and scholarly enthusiasm helped bridge the gap between the pulp traditions of the early 1900s and the expansive fantasy publishing boom that followed.
Lin Carter’s legacy endures through his own imaginative tales, his critical studies, and the many classic works he rescued from obscurity, ensuring their place in the canon of fantasy literature for generations to come.
Carter authored numerous novels, short stories, and critical studies, often working within the sword-and-sorcery and high fantasy traditions. His own creations, such as the “Thongor of Lemuria” series, paid homage to pulp-era adventure fiction while adding his distinctive voice and world-building style. His nonfiction book Tolkien: A Look Behind The Lord of the Rings was one of the first major studies of Tolkien’s work and its mythological roots, and it helped establish Carter as a knowledgeable commentator on fantasy literature.
Beyond his own writing, Carter was a central figure in bringing classic and forgotten works of fantasy back into print. As editor of the Ballantine Adult Fantasy series from 1969 to 1974, he curated and introduced dozens of volumes, reintroducing readers to authors such as William Morris, Lord Dunsany, E. R. Eddison, and James Branch Cabell. His introductions not only contextualized these works historically and literarily but also encouraged a new generation to explore the breadth of the fantasy tradition.
Carter was also active in the shared literary universe of the “Cthulhu Mythos,” expanding upon the creations of H. P. Lovecraft and other members of the “Lovecraft Circle.” His collaborations and solo contributions in this genre further cemented his reputation as both a creative writer and a literary preservationist.
In addition to fiction and criticism, Carter was an active member of several science fiction and fantasy organizations, including the Science Fiction Writers of America. He frequently appeared at conventions, where he was known for his enthusiasm, deep knowledge of the genre, and willingness to mentor aspiring writers.
Though sometimes critiqued for the derivative nature of some of his work, Carter’s influence on the fantasy revival of the late 20th century remains significant. His combination of creative output, editorial vision, and scholarly enthusiasm helped bridge the gap between the pulp traditions of the early 1900s and the expansive fantasy publishing boom that followed.
Lin Carter’s legacy endures through his own imaginative tales, his critical studies, and the many classic works he rescued from obscurity, ensuring their place in the canon of fantasy literature for generations to come.
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
March 29, 2017
My favorite of the Zarkon books. Of course I would only recommend them to a Lin Carter fan. As to why someone would be a Lin Carter fan well, I really couldn't say, but I sure get a kick out of them.
June 8, 2016
Nice modern treatment of the old Pulp style hero. Action, mystery and exotic locations make this an nice enjoyable read. Recommended
May 23, 2024
My favorite of the Zarkon series so far, in this one they finally leave the USA to investigate a mysterious man-shaped creature covered in molten lava - a volcano ogre!
April 12, 2016
Why have a team of 5 extra-ordinary individuals when 2 have nothing at all to do? Why give away major parts of the story in a pointless introduction that explains how all the key plot devices could really work? I did like the Fooey Mulligan character though. Although I could have done with less of the comedy relief Spanish detective, who manages to have probably the worst accent in books ever. "Hai Caramba" indeed. Will not rush to seek out the others in the series. Good cover though, with bonus points for the events depicted actually happening in the story.
April 22, 2010
At best, the Zarkon series is watered down Doc Savage, but still very entertaining for what it is.
No fate of the world stuff here, just a small island with a local monster that is terrorizing the locals and messing with the local mining project.
Zarkon and his crew play detective.
Bit more low-key than the other books, but a a nice fluffy read full of pulp action and suspense
No fate of the world stuff here, just a small island with a local monster that is terrorizing the locals and messing with the local mining project.
Zarkon and his crew play detective.
Bit more low-key than the other books, but a a nice fluffy read full of pulp action and suspense
December 9, 2014
Prince Zarkon goes to a South Seas Island, where there is something resembling a fire demon killing people.
A very good update of the Doc Savage formula.
A very good update of the Doc Savage formula.
June 16, 2011
Grade C-. Book A3.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews