Way Station is a science fiction book written by Clifford Simark. The book gives the story of Enoch Wallace, an American Civil War veteran, who has outlived his compatriots. Surprisingly, Wallace has lived for more than a hundred years but looks very young. The mystery surrounding his near-complete immortality baffles U.S intelligence. The U.S government appoints Claude Lewis, a member of the intelligence service, to investigate Wallace. Lewis visits Dr. Erwin Hardwicke and pleads with him to help unravel the covert antiquity of Wallace. Dr. Hardwicke is also surprised and cast doubt of such a man existing.
Wallace is a reclusive man living in Wisconsin whose farm is used by aliens as Earth’s way station. Aliens from other worlds have formed a Galactic Council that includes only peaceful planets. Earth has been left out due to an impending nuclear war. However, an alien named Ulysses visits Wallace and strikes a deal. Wallace’s farm would be used as a way station and, in turn, he will be given a near-immortal lifespan. Wisconsin neighbors are marveled by Wallace’s condition but opt to keep quiet. Correspondingly, Wallace keeps a reclusive life which makes it difficult for neighbors to comprehend the whole situation.
Challenges hit Wallace hard when Galactic Council decides to shut down the way station. Wallace becomes torn between staying on earth and leaving his home planet forever. Mary, who keeps him company, also disappears mysteriously in a midst of a flashing light. Wallace is left hopeless and flashing back on his life. The entire story advocates for the respect of all humanity from all races. Living together harmoniously can make humans achieve greater things.
