Authentic Science Fiction Monthly No. 72

Authentic Science Fiction Monthly, Issue No. 72 (August 1956) This issue of the British science fiction pulp presents three novelettes and four short stories alongside editorial and technical features. Editor E.C. Tubb's lengthy editorial argues that human nature remains fundamentally predatory despite technological progress, questioning whether education or environment can cultivate nobility. The lead novel is Julian Cary's "The Giveaway Worlds," centering on recruitment officer Mark Cameron at Colonial Terminal. Facing pressure from Senator Colburn to increase colonist applications for virgin planets (Deneb Five, Sirius Two, Mirab Eight), Cameron interviews unsuitable applicants—a man fleeing spousal support, an idealistic youth, and a shrewd couple skeptical of promised living conditions. The story explores tensions between recruitment goals and practical colonization challenges. Additional content includes Jonathan Stones's "Reply Deferred" novelette and short stories by James Causey, Don Morgan, Mark Clifton, and Robert Presbie. Technical features include Colin May's "Design for a Spacesuit" and W.G. Speirs's "Time Please?" article.