Steel: And Other Stories

This collection features the story that inspired Real Steel, a major motion picture starring Hugh Jackman. The title story imagines a future where massive humanoid robots replace human boxers in high-tech arenas. Former flesh-and-blood champions become obsolete in this gritty setting. This work was previously adapted as an episode of the original Twilight Zone television series. The collection contains over twelve other tales alongside two new stories that have never appeared in previous Matheson collections. Readers will find a bizarre satirical fantasy titled The Splendid Source, which was later turned into an episode of The Family Guy. Matheson was recently inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame, demonstrating his legendary imagination across various genres. This book suits fans of classic science fiction and supernatural horror who appreciate Matheson’s range. It may not appeal to readers seeking only contemporary gore or non-fiction boxing histories. The stories draw on traditions of speculative fiction and satirical fantasy. The volume is organized as a short story collection rather than a novel. The inclusion of the Real Steel source material connects past literary works with modern cinematic adaptations.