Author
Alan Arkin
1934-2023
Alan Arkin (1934-2023) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Alan Arkin
People Soup
"People Soup" by Alan Arkin is a whimsical children's story written in the late 1950s. The book follows the imaginative adventures of two siblings, Bob and Bonnie, as they delve into a chaotic kitchen experiment that takes unexpected turns. This charming tale captures the essence of childhood curiosity and the spirit of invention, wrapped in humor and lightheartedness. In this story, Bob, the older brother, is engrossed in a messy concoction made with an assortment of unusual ingredients, while Bonnie, his younger sister, becomes his reluctant assistant. As the experiment progresses, Bonnie unexpectedly transforms into a chicken after sampling the mixture. This leads to a comedic and slightly surreal exploration of her new form, as Bob encourages her to embrace the experience before changing her back. The narrative highlights their sibling dynamic, their playful banter, and Bob's relentless pursuit of scientific discovery, culminating in a scene where Bob himself morphs into a St. Bernard. Through their humorous mishaps and imaginative interactions, "People Soup" presents a delightful commentary on the boundless creativity of childhood.
Whiskaboom
"Whiskaboom" by Alan Arkin is a whimsical science fiction story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative centers around the character Jack, an eccentric and determined inventor who becomes obsessed with his experiments, leading to unintended consequences that challenge his existence. The book captures themes of ambition, family dynamics, and the comedic misadventures that arise from Jack's relentless pursuit of scientific achievement. The story unfolds as Jack moves into the home of Mr. and Mrs. Burroughs, where he isolates himself for the sake of conducting his groundbreaking experiments. As he works tirelessly on his invention—resulting in strange sounds like "whiskaboom"—he inadvertently creates chaos that affects not only himself but the very structure of the house. A mishap causes Jack to become flat, diminished in substance as he grapples with the repercussions of his scientific aspirations. The Burroughs, rather than abandoning him, decide to care for Jack, showcasing their affection and concern in the face of absurdity. Eventually, Jack realizes that he needs help from his father, leading to a comedic yet touching exploration of familial ties and the fine line between genius and folly.