Other Days, Other Eyes

This early 1970s SF novel tells of scientist and amateur sleuth Alban Garrod, who invents a type of glass that can store images and release them days, months or even years later. It becomes known as Slow Glass or Retardite. And it makes him a billionaire.

But the rapid developments in slow glass lead to some uncomfortable realities about surveillance and saying by the government on its own citizens. Garrod also struggles with his love life, ah pity the poor unhappy billionaire!

Shaw's short novel is well written but it didn't blow me away. The idea at its core is novel but it's a very “1970s” worldview, especially in its depiction of women. Garrod, in a loveless marriage, seems unable to free himself from both his wife and the increasing misuse of his invention.

Along the way there are a couple of crimes that he helps to solve with the use of the unique properties of slow glass - nobody can ever get away with anything in this future. Big Brother made manifest. Indeed the ending makes this very explicit.

It's a good book and well worth a read. Bob Shaw is an interesting writer and I'll be seeking out his other works.