'Project Mastodon' Summary

A group of friends, driven by a shared fascination with the past, construct a rudimentary time machine and travel back to a time when mastodons and saber-toothed tigers roamed North America. They face a plethora of challenges, including adapting to a prehistoric environment, encountering unforeseen dangers, and dealing with the limitations of their limited resources. Their journey tests their resourcefulness and their commitment to their expedition, as they grapple with the ethical implications of their actions and the unforeseen consequences of altering the course of history. Simak's trademark wit and insightful observations on human nature permeate the story, highlighting the potential pitfalls and absurdities of time travel. The novel is a humorous and thought-provoking exploration of the allure of the past, the challenges of venturing into the unknown, and the enduring power of human ingenuity.