The cost of living . Diplomatic Inviolability . The problem of the natives" is a collection of stories by the outstanding American writer Robert Sheckley, who is famous for his witty style and deep philosophical reflections. Shackley, whose works often explore the boundaries of human nature and the absurdity of existence, once again immerses the reader in a world where reality and fantasy intertwine, creating unique situations and unexpected turns. The collection includes several short stories, each of which touches on important topics such as morality, ethics, the value of life and the interaction between different cultures. “The cost of living” is not just the title of one of the stories, it is a metaphor that permeates the entire collection. Sheckley makes us think about what is really worth a human life, and how often we are willing to sacrifice it for our own interests. The topics raised in this collection are still relevant to this day. In the context of globalization and cultural exchange, questions about how we perceive “others” are becoming increasingly important. The story "Diplomatic Immunity" raises questions about the privileges and responsibilities that come with power, while "The Native Problem" explores the complex relationship between colonizers and indigenous peoples.[citation needed] Sheckley masterfully balances between satire and seriousness, making the reader not only laugh, but also think about the deep truths. This book will be of interest to both young audiences and more mature readers who appreciate smart and provocative works. If you like authors like Isaac Asimov or Kurt Vonnegut, you will definitely appreciate Sheckley's style and ideas. His works appeal to those who like to ask questions about the meaning of life, what makes us human, and how we interact with the world around us. Robert Sheckley's style is unique: he combines elements of science fiction with witty satire and deep philosophical reflections. Its ability to create vivid images and memorable situations makes each story fascinating and multi-layered. In this collection, the reader will find both light, comic moments and serious reflections, which makes it ideal for those who are looking for something more than just entertainment. The Cost of Living . Diplomatic Inviolability . The problem of the natives" is not just a set of stories, but a real literary laboratory in which Sheckley explores human nature and social norms. It forces us to look at the world from a new angle, questioning the usual notions of good and evil, justice and injustice. If you are looking for a book that will make you think and have fun at the same time, this collection will be an excellent choice. It is suitable for reading at any age, for those who want to expand their horizons and plunge into a world where each story is a separate universe with unique laws and rules. Do not miss the opportunity to meet one of the brightest representatives of science fiction of the 20th century - Robert Sheckley