The Division of Personality . The Man According to Plato . The Freezing World . Ritual is a unique collection of works by the outstanding American writer Robert Shackley, who is known for his witty approach to science fiction and deep philosophical undertones. Shackley, the master of paradoxes and unexpected plot twists, in this collection invites readers to plunge into a world where reality and illusion are intertwined, and human nature is subjected to careful analysis. Each of the four parts of the collection is a separate story, but they are all united by a common theme: the study of human psychology and philosophy. In Personality Split, the author touches on issues of identity and self-awareness, showing how easily a person can lose himself in a world full of external influences. This part makes us think about what it means to be “me” and how our perception of ourselves can change depending on the circumstances. "Man according to Plato" is a philosophical parable in which Sheckley uses allegories to explore the concepts of an ideal society and human nature. This story will be interesting to those who are fond of philosophy, sociology and political theory. Sheckley invites readers to reflect on how our ideals fit reality and how often we adjust to societal norms, losing our individuality. “The frozen world” takes us to a world where time and space have a completely different meaning. Here the author creates an atmosphere full of mysteries and unexpected discoveries, which makes this part especially attractive for science fiction lovers. Sheckley masterfully plays with the concepts of time and perception, forcing the reader to rethink the usual ideas about the world. Finally, in The Ritual, Sheckley explores themes of tradition and custom, showing how they can influence the individual and society at large. This part of the collection makes you think about how much we are attached to our roots and how it affects our behavior and choices. The book will be interesting to a wide audience - from teenagers to adult readers who love smart and deep stories. It is suitable for those who are looking not only for entertainment, but also for food for thought. If you are fond of philosophy, psychology or just love high-quality science fiction, this collection will be a real find for you. The style of Robert Shackley is distinguished by ease and irony, which makes his works accessible and fascinating. His ability to combine deep philosophical ideas with an exciting plot attracts the attention of readers around the world. Sheckley is the author of such well-known works as “Crazy World” and “In Search of Utopia”, which also deserve your attention. The split personality . The Man According to Plato . The Freezing World . Ritual is not just a collection of stories, but a real intellectual game where each reader can find something of his own. This book will make you think about your place in the world, what it means to be human, and what the limits of our perception are. Do not miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Sheckley, where each page is full of unexpected discoveries and deep reflections.