The Black Cloud

Astronomers in England and America have made a terrifying discovery: an ominous black cloud the size of Jupiter is travelling straight towards our solar system. If their calculations are correct, the cloud’s path will bring it between the Earth and the Sun, blocking out the Sun’s rays and threatening unimaginable consequences for our planet. With the fate of every living thing on Earth in the balance, world leaders assemble a team of brilliant scientists to figure out a way to stop the cloud. But when they uncover the truth behind its origins, they will be forced to reconsider everything they think they know about the nature of life in the universe . . .


A landmark of British science fiction, The Black Cloud (1957) was the first novel by world-renowned astronomer Sir Fred Hoyle (1915-2001), who used his own scientific background to create a frighteningly real apocalyptic thriller in which, Hoyle said, “there is very little that could not conceivably happen.” Long recognized as a classic in Great Britain, Hoyle’s novel returns to print in the U.S. for the first time in over 40 years in this edition, published to coincide with the centennial of the author’s birth and featuring a new foreword by Geoffrey Hoyle.


“One of the greatest works of science fiction ever written.” – Richard Dawkins


“Without a question the most intelligently written science fiction story I have ever read . . . A terrific yarn.” – Charlotte Observer


“An eerie story which demands the reader’s attention from start to finish.” – Denver Post


“[A] rattling good story . . . a really thrilling book. There is a largeness, generosity, and jollity about the whole spirit of the book that reminds one of the early Wells at his best.” – G. S. Fraser, New Statesman


“A prominent astronomer’s first fictional excursion is also a scientific diversion of some brilliance . . . considerable humor, and manages an intellectual entertainment for hi-fi tastes.” – Kirkus


“[F]ascinatingly authentic . . . Hoyle builds up his story to a remarkable pitch of tension and then produces his astonishing climax . . . an exciting story well laced with satirical humour.” – Liverpool Daily Post