THE HITCHHIKER'S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY was undoubtedly Adams's most famous work. He got his first idea for the novel when he was bumming around Europe. As a backpacker, he found a multitude of alternative travel guides for people who wanted to roam around the world in interesting ways. And so was born both the novel THE HITCHHIKER'S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY and its fictional guidebook counterpart, a technological encyclopedia containing everything any alien race would need to know when exploring the different planets and systems of the universe.

Adams's book begins with earthling Arthur Dent facing the destruction of his house to make room for a new highway. To add insult to injury, Arthur's friend of many years, Ford Prefect (a closeted alien), informs Arthur that Earth itself is about to end, as an alien race wishes to make an intergalactic highway and Earth is in its way. The novel then follows what becomes of Arthur and Ford as they hitch their way onto the Heart Of Gold, the most advanced ship in the galaxy, which itself was hijacked by Zaphod Beeblebrox, the two-headed, three-armed, way trippy ex-hippie president of the galaxy and an old "friend" of Ford's. Also on board, they meet the unforgettable Trillian, Zaphod's girlfriend, whom Arthur once tried to mack on, and Marvin, a paranoid, chronically depressed robot. Thus, Arthur and Ford cruise the galaxy, searching for the question to the Ultimate Answer Of Life, the Universe, and Everything.

THE HITCHHIKER'S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY has a vice-like hold on the reader's attention from the start, Adams having laced his science fiction with black humor. THE HITCHHIKER'S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY is required reading for science fiction fans and is also sure to be loved by fans of Terry Pratchett, Monty Python (well, British humor in general), dolphins (you have to read it to understand), or anyone just looking for a great read.

   --- Serena Burns

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