What makes the best Larry Niven short stories so appealing?

Well, 'The Soft Weapon' is among the top. It has an interesting plot where an alien weapon with unique properties is discovered. 'At the Core' is also a notable one. It delves into the mysteries of a planet's core and what might be found there. And 'The Borderland of Sol' is quite good too, dealing with the idea of the outer regions of our solar system and potential encounters there. There are other great ones too, but these are some that come to mind quickly.

One of the best is 'Ringworld'. It features a huge, artificial ring-shaped world orbiting a star. The concept is mind - boggling and the story is filled with adventure and interesting alien species.

Well, 'The Soft Weapon' is also a great one from the collection. It involves a powerful alien weapon that has a mind of its own. The story is filled with action and adventure as the characters try to figure out how to handle this dangerous and unpredictable weapon, while also dealing with the political and ethical implications.

'All the Myriad Ways' is also highly recommended. It delves into the concept of parallel universes in a really interesting way. Niven uses different storylines to explore how different choices can lead to vastly different outcomes across multiple universes. It's a mind - bending read.

One of his great short stories is 'Neutron Star'. It features a protagonist exploring a neutron star and the intense gravitational and physical challenges involved. It's a classic that showcases Niven's ability to create fascinating hard science fiction scenarios.

'Protector' is also among his best. It features a very interesting take on evolution and what it means to be a protector of a species. The main character's transformation and his journey through the story are both thought - provoking and exciting.

One notable feature is his vivid world - building. For example, in his 'Known Space' stories, he creates a complex and believable universe with different species and their unique cultures. His stories often explore scientific concepts in an accessible way. Like how he might deal with the implications of faster - than - light travel in a story.

Yes. 'At the Core' is interesting as it takes us deep into a planet's core, full of strange and dangerous things. 'The Borderland of Sol' gives us a look at the outer reaches of our solar system and the potential for alien encounters. Also, 'The Jigsaw Man' presents a thought - provoking view of a future society's handling of organ donation in a rather unorthodox way.

One of his well - known works is 'Ringworld'. It presents a really imaginative concept of a huge, artificial ring - shaped world. Another great one is 'Known Space' series which is full of unique alien species and fascinating technological ideas.

The main appeal is the relationship between Harry and Louis. Fans love to see different interpretations of their bond in fanfics.