I've read 3, 4, and 5. Stainless Steel Rat is pretty much a comedy in a science fiction setting, a super criminal going around and carrying out various schemes. Kind of James Bond in the future, with gadgets that are much more outrageous.
The Lensman series is pretty straight-up science fiction written during and shortly after WW2, and probably the most unusual thing about it is the presumed pace of technological advancement. With the invention of jet propulsion, atomic power, radar, ballistic missiles, and whatever else all coming at around that time, it's kind of understandable someone would assume humanity would continue with another world-changing invention every year or so forever.
I guess the thing they both actually happen to have in common is they stress the triumph of the truly exceptional individual over the masses.
I've read 3, 4, and 5. Stainless Steel Rat is pretty much a comedy in a science fiction setting, a super criminal going around and carrying out various schemes. Kind of James Bond in the future, with gadgets that are much more outrageous.
The Lensman series is pretty straight-up science fiction written during and shortly after WW2, and probably the most unusual thing about it is the presumed pace of technological advancement. With the invention of jet propulsion, atomic power, radar, ballistic missiles, and whatever else all coming at around that time, it's kind of understandable someone would assume humanity would continue with another world-changing invention every year or so forever.
I guess the thing they both actually happen to have in common is they stress the triumph of the truly exceptional individual over the masses.