Ministry of Disturbance and Other Science Fiction by H. Beam Piper, Adventure Paperback – April 1, 2007
“Oomphel in the Sky” by H. Beam Piper, originally published in Analog Science Fact and Fiction, November 1960, Aegypan 2007 trade paperback, 200 pages.
This is part of H. Beam Piper’s Future History series that he worked on throughout his SF writing years. This is the second story I’ve covered from this collection.
In this story, the natives of Kwannon practiced ritual magic under the watchful eyes of their Terran rulers. Hunting, farming, raising children–it all required the special spells only a powerful shoonoo could cast. But when prophesies of the end of the world send the natives of Kwannon swarming, it may also be the end for the Terrans. The natives, it seems, actually want the end of the world–for the promised afterlife will be far, far better. And who can argue with the shoonoon and their prophetic dreams? It’s up to Miles Gilbert, reporter for the Kwannon Planetwide News Service, to save the day. For only he can turn the natives from the course with the special magic of Earth, the machine-giving Oomphel (technology).
Though the story is, typically of Piper, more talk than action, I enjoyed it and am continuing to read this collection.
Tip the Wink 
I remember enjoying Piper’s stories back in the sixties. Especially Omnilingual and He walked Around the Horses. I haven’t read him since than but do have a collection of his on my Kindle.
This is the best story in the collection so far, but I’ll start the next, “Omnilingual” tomorrow. I’m wondering why I haven’t read more Piper over the years.
This story sounds good and certainly very different from any I have read.
Remember, this is coming your way when I finish it.
I do remember, and I am looking forward to it.
I’ve only read a few of H. Beam Piper’s short stories. The FUZZY novels are not my favorites. The first Piper book I read was SPACE VIKING. Loved the cool cover on the 1963 ACE paperback.
George, the Fuzzy stories are not good examples of Piper’s mature work. Try some of his future history.
Like George’s selection today, I have never read anything like this. I should at least try one.
I think you might enjoy these stories, Patti, and this collection is available.
I’ve never read one of his books or stories either.
After hearing about it for years, I bought a copy of his MURDER IN THE GUNROOM, but must admit I have never read it.
Gunroom isn’t great, Jeff, compared to the future history novels and stories. This collection is a much better example.