The Rim of Space (1961) is the debut science fiction novel by Anglo-Australian author A. Bertram Chandler.

The novel sees Calver joining up with the Rim Runners in order to undertake an exploration of desolate planets.

Expecting fast-paced, low quality pulp fiction, I was surprised how contemplative and well thought out the book was.

Surprisingly reminiscent of early Poul Anderson for its literacy and often melancholic mood, this is an old gem that’s worth a read.

"[4] An early version of this novel was published in the January 1959 of Astounding Science Fiction as a novella under the title "To Run the Rim".