In a world torn apart by endless warfare between the Soviet Union and the United Nations, humanity struggles to survive amidst the desolation of a nuclear wasteland. Philip K. Dick's captivating short story, Second Variety, delves deep into the consequences of war and the relentless pursuit of power. Originally published in 1953, this chilling science fiction masterpiece has inspired blockbuster films like Screamers and its sequel Screamers: The Hunting. From the author that brought you timeless cinematic classics such as Blade Runner, Total Recall, and Minority Report, comes an unforgettable adventure that will leave you questioning the boundaries of trust and the cost of destruction. As Russia pushes the United States to the brink, the UN devises a last-ditch effort to win the war-- an arsenal of deadly, self-replicating assassin machines known as "claws". Equipped with the ability to evolve and the sole objective to exterminate all living organisms, the claws are programmed to recognize and spare those who wear designated badges. But when the machines begin to uncover unexpected ways to outsmart their creators, the very existence of life on Earth is threatened. Second Variety presents a gripping and thought-provoking story that challenges the nature of humanity and the ramifications of technology gone awry. With unforgettable characters, nail-biting suspense, and an unsettling take on a dystopian future, this is one book you won't be able to put down.