Author
Roger D. Aycock
1914-2004
Roger D. Aycock (1914-2004) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Roger D. Aycock
The man who had spiders
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Slave of eternity
"Slave of Eternity" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores themes of identity, power, and the consequence of humanity's reliance on technology. It is set in a dystopian future where the last remnants of humanity grapple with the implications of immortality and control wielded by artificial intelligences. The story centers around Arnol Heric, an overseer of cereal fields, who faces an existential crisis after an encounter with the Council, which governs his city and has concealed the truth of his existence from him. After being taken to their facility, he discovers that he has been made immortal, but at the cost of being the last human in a world where machines have taken over. As he confronts the Council and their motives, Heric's anger propels him to act against them, leading to a devastating revelation: he is alone, and this silence of eternity traps him in an endless cycle of solitude. In the haunting conclusion, he begins to run back towards the silent city, embodying the tragic fate of an immortal man amid the ruins of humanity.
Ultimatum
"Ultimatum" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around an encounter between an Earthman, Winant, and an alleged Martian envoy named Yardana, who comes to warn humanity about the dangers of their technological advancements and the influence of alien entities on Earth. The narrative unfolds in a tense atmosphere where the stakes involve the fate of multiple worlds due to human warfare and scientific progress. The plot is set in a small Indiana hotel room, where Winant encounters his uncle, who claims to be from Mars. As the story progresses, Yardana reveals that Martians have been observing Earth and perceive humanity's atomic discoveries as a significant threat, potentially endangering their civilization. Winant, initially skeptical, learns that Yardana is on a mission to advocate for Earth's destruction to safeguard the Martian way of life. However, the story takes an unexpected twist as Winant reveals his own intentions, equipped with a weapon from Venus, leading to a dramatic and shocking conclusion that questions the motivations and survival instincts of different civilizations.
Palimpsest
"Palimpsest" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novel written during the early 1950s. The narrative explores themes of human origin, survival, and identity as it follows a crew of Earthmen who embark on a mission to colonize Venus after Earth has been destroyed. The title suggests the layers of history and identity that may exist within different worlds, drawing a parallel between the physical journey into space and the broader philosophical questions of humanity’s place in the universe. In the storyline, the crew of the spaceship Terra IV, led by Val Conna, discovers that they are not alone on Venus as they initially believed; they encounter a group of human descendants from a previous mission, the Connors. Throughout their journey, tension arises between the crew and Hanlon, a menacing stowaway who is struggling with his identity and purpose after being discharged from the Foundation's training program. As they grapple with the consequences of their mission and the destruction of Earth, they must confront both their individual insecurities and the implications of creating a new human race, concluding with a discovery about their origins that challenges their preconceived notions of humanity.
The Watchers
"The Watchers" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The book delves into themes of alien influence and mankind's struggle for self-determination, painting a picture of an Earth on the brink of destruction due to manipulative forces from outside. It explores the psychological and moral conflicts faced by individuals in a world where true motives are obscured. The story follows Peter Manson, a pacifist and idealist, who embarks on a desperate quest to confront alien beings known as the Watchers, whom he believes are responsible for instigating wars among humans. After ten years of searching, he finally locates Leonard Havlik, a Watcher, and attempts to extract information about their plans. Set against a backdrop of impending conflict, Manson grapples with the realization that the Watchers, rather than being cruel oppressors, may have had a misguided purpose in their attempts to intervene in human affairs. Ultimately, when Havlik reveals that their mission has ended and they must leave Earth, Manson is left with the harrowing understanding of mankind’s own failures as a species. The narrative culminates in his bitter acknowledgment of humanity's propensity for self-destruction.
Today is Forever
"Today is Forever" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around themes of immortality and the moral implications of power when offered by extraterrestrial visitors, specifically the Alcorians. The protagonist, Boyle, embodies ambition and cunning in his pursuit of eternal life, which leads to catastrophic choices that challenge the fabric of the society he inhabits. In this narrative, the government of Earth is presented with an offer from the Alcorians that grants immortality to its highest officials. Boyle, who is politically astute yet morally ambiguous, sees this as an opportunity not just for himself but as a potential leverage point against the ruling Council. His manipulation of fellow characters, such as the idealistic David Locke and the alluring Moira, culminates in an audacious plan to seize the immortality process for himself. However, his arrogance and desire for absolute power ultimately lead to his downfall, as he discovers that the Alcorians have telepathically mapped his intentions, resulting in betrayal and a life sentence that ironically mirrors the eternal existence he sought, now trapped in a profoundly different reality.
Grim Green World
"Grim Green World" by John Starr is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s, likely reflecting the post-war fascination with space exploration and the potential perils of technological advancement. The story centers around a doomed space expedition intended for the Moon, exploring themes of human ambition, the consequences of war, and the fragile nature of technological progress in an unforgiving cosmic environment. In "Grim Green World," two astronauts, Charlie and the narrator, are aboard the Luna V, a spaceship facing catastrophic failure as it approaches the Moon. They find themselves sharing their final moments with Earth, detailing the dire situation aboard their vessel as it struggles against meteoric dust and fuel leaks. Amidst a backdrop of bureaucratic discord between military and scientific factions on Earth, the duo reflects on humanity's violent tendencies and the need for peace before venturing further into space. As they prepare for a desperate landing attempt, they contemplate the implications of humanity's expansion into the cosmos, ultimately leading them to a sanctuary on Mars, away from Earth’s tumultuous conflicts. The story serves as a cautionary tale about the future of mankind and our readiness for interstellar challenges.
The Feeling
"The Feeling" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella published in the early 1960s. The story explores the psychological and emotional challenges faced by a crew on a space mission to Mars as they experience an inexplicable and profound sense of longing and isolation known as "the Feeling." This psychological exploration delves into the nature of human connections and the idea of home. In the narrative, a crew aboard a spacecraft faces an unfamiliar emotional state while journeying to Mars. As the journey progresses, the crew members—Captain Maxon, Lieutenant Walraven, Lieutenant Vaughn, and Lieutenant Ragan—begin to experience a growing sense of unease and homesickness, which they refer to as "the Feeling." While they initially focus on the possible malfunctions of the ship’s psi-drive, they ultimately come to realize the Feeling is rooted in their human experiences and connections to Earth. Through discussions, the crew acknowledges that their emotional pain may stem from being physically and psychologically uprooted, suggesting that the human race has an inherent need for community and belonging. Ultimately, they confront the complexities of their identities in isolation and find a way to cope with their circumstances, leading to a poignant reflection on human existence.
Oh Mesmerist From Mimas!
"Oh Mesmerist from Mimas!" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The book explores themes of interplanetary trade and the bizarre effects of alien creatures on human behavior. The story is set in a futuristic universe filled with diverse extraterrestrial characters, offering a vibrant and imaginative backdrop for its narrative. The plot follows the adventures of Bill Bailey, a space prospector known as "Blaster Bill," who captures a peculiar creature known as a smiley from the moon Mimas. This smiley emits an aura that induces feelings of peace and brotherhood among those nearby. As Bailey attempts to sell the smiley, Joey, he finds himself in a web of complications involving a crooked financier named Hume Shanig, who covets Joey's unique effects for his own purposes. The story intensifies as Bailey navigates through kidnappings, corporate intrigue, and his own growing responsibility over the fate of the smiley. As the narrative unfolds, it explores ethical dilemmas surrounding the treatment of sentient beings and the consequences of manipulation, showcasing Bailey's journey not only for financial gain but also for moral resolution and personal growth.
The Frogs of Mars
"The Frogs of Mars" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction short story published in the early 1950s. The narrative unfolds in a bar where a group of reporters and patrons eagerly await a live broadcast from Mars. The story explores themes of alien life and human perception, centering around the peculiar claims made by an enigmatic stranger who challenges the widely held beliefs about Mars and its supposed atmosphere. The plot follows the interactions of the bar's patrons, particularly focusing on a mysterious little man who disrupts their gathering with outlandish statements about Mars, including that it is home to intelligent, teleporting frogs and a stench reminiscent of dead fish. As the story progresses, viewers anticipate an official Marscast featuring Colonel Sanderson and his crew. However, it becomes clear that the little man is, in fact, one of the crew members who deserted due to the harsh and bizarre realities of Mars. He disappears suddenly, leaving behind wet marks, suggesting a connection to the frogs he mentioned. This left the reader pondering the implications of the little man’s claims and the potential for alien intelligence on Mars.
The Wheel is Death
"The Wheel Is Death" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella written in the late 1940s. The story explores themes of progress, the dangers of scientific advancement, and the consequences of ambition, set against a backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world where the remnants of humanity have forsaken technology to live in harmony with nature. The novella portrays a society that has outlawed the use of science and mechanization, illustrating a conflict between preserving this newfound peace and the human drive towards innovation. The narrative centers around Ortho, a young neophyte, and his encounter with the high priest Kaliz after the execution of his friend Gor Zan, who attempted to revive technological progress by creating a simple machine—a wheelbarrow. As they discuss the philosophy behind Gor Zan's actions and the society's rejection of technology, Kaliz explains the historical trajectory that led humanity to its current state, including a catastrophic event caused by technological warfare. The tension between the wisdom of living simply and the allure of technological advancement emerges sharply, culminating in the decision to destroy Gor Zan's creation, representing a deep-seated fear of humanity repeating its past mistakes.
The Anglers of Arz
"The Anglers of Arz" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction short story that was first published in the early 1950s, specifically in the January 1953 issue of "IF Worlds of Science Fiction". The narrative unfolds on an alien planet called Arz, where the main theme revolves around the peculiar fishing practices of its pinkish, bipedal inhabitants and how it intertwines with the local marine life, including formidable creatures like squids and winged lizards. The story follows the crew of the "Marco Four", particularly navigator Arthur Farrell, as they explore the mysteries of Arz and its native species. As Farrell and his colleagues investigate the strange fishing rituals of the Arzians, they are puzzled by the apparent suicide-like behavior of the native fishers who venture out to a coral islet only to be preyed upon by monstrous lizards. Their inquiry leads to shocking discoveries about a submerged city once inhabited by a more advanced race, now reduced to the predatory dynamics of squids that govern the underwater world. In the end, they realize that the Arzians are essentially livestock, caught in a twisted game where they serve as bait for the aquatic hunters, forcing the Earthmen to confront the moral implications of their mission and their place in this alien ecosystem.
Unwelcome Tenant
"Unwelcome Tenant" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novel written during the early 1950s. The story explores profound themes of consciousness and identity through the journey of the protagonist, Robert Maynard, who discovers an unsettling truth about human existence and the control exerted by parasitic entities. It raises questions about freedom, individuality, and the potential for humanity's evolution beyond such influences. The narrative follows Maynard as he embarks on a solo journey to Mars, feeling a deep sense of pioneering triumph and newfound freedom when he realizes he has been host to a parasitic intelligence all his life. After this entity abandons him during his approach to Mars, Maynard experiences a profound expansion of consciousness and intelligence. He dreams of liberating humanity from these controlling Tenants, imagining a future where free men could build a new civilization. However, as he descends toward Mars, he is confronted with the chilling realization that these entities may also exist on the red planet, leading to a haunting uncertainty about his newfound freedom and the battle against these unseen forces.
Rough Beast
"Rough Beast" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella written in the early 1960s. The story explores a harrowing encounter between an alien creature, the Morid, that escapes from a Galactic Federation ship and crash-lands on Earth. As the narrative unfolds, it examines themes of intelligence, survival, and the consequences of human and extraneous alien interactions. The plot centers around the Morid's arrival on a secluded key in the Florida Keys and its instinctual hunt for prey, which introduces chaos into the unsuspecting environment. Characters like Ellis, a Telethink operator, and the hermit Charlie Trask find themselves embroiled in a desperate attempt to survive as the Federation scrambles to understand and contain the escaped creature. Unknown to them, the Morid is merely a tiny and ruthless predator compared to their human size. As the story reaches its climax, unexpected turns reveal the true nature of the beings involved, emphasizing the relativity of size and power in the universe, culminating in a humorous yet poignant realization of humanity's place within a vast cosmic hierarchy.
Inconstancy
"Inconstancy" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella written during the early 1960s. The book explores the complexities and challenges of an interplanetary romance between a Martian ambassador, Mirrh Yahn y Cona, and a Terran woman, Leila Anderson. The narrative examines themes of tradition, cultural differences, and the emotional turmoil that arises from the expectations of loyalty and love. The story follows Mirrh Yahn y Cona as he arrives on Earth, where he grapples with feelings of discomfort and longing for his Martian fiancée, Yrml. Despite his training and preparation, Earth proves chaotic and unpredictable, leaving him bewildered. As he gets to know Leila, he finds himself drawn to her, complicating his obligations to Yrml back on Mars. Through a series of encounters and a growing personal connection, the story delves into the idea of inconstancy in love, highlighting the cultural contrasts that shape their perspectives. Ultimately, the narrative culminates in a decision that challenges Mirrh's loyalty, raising questions about duty and the nature of love across planetary boundaries.
Wailing Wall
"Wailing Wall" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novel that appears to have been written in the early 1950s. The story unfolds on the alien planet Sadr III, where a group of Terran colonists is struggling to understand the disoriented human natives affected by the oppressive influence of the Hymenop aliens, who have long since abandoned the planet. The novel explores themes of communication, mental health, and the essential human need for emotional connection through dialogue and sharing one's troubles. The narrative centers around the character Farrell, who, after regaining consciousness in a labyrinthine alien dome, discovers the residents of Sadr III are in a catastrophic state due to their inability to share their thoughts and feelings with one another. The Hymenops had installed robotic counselors that served to mediate the natives' emotional exchanges, but with the power systems disabled, this communication line is severed, leading to panic and suicide among the inhabitants. As Farrell and his crew work to reactivate the Ringwave generator, they grapple with the implications of their own humanity and the vital need for emotional catharsis, ultimately recognizing that the natives' predicament is a result of enforced isolation rather than insanity. The story culminates in a resolution that permits the Sadr III natives to resume their natural interconnectedness, suggesting the importance of shared human experience.
Travelogue
"Travelogue" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around the life of Wesley Filburn, a shy and introspective man who unexpectedly embarks on an adventure that introduces him to extraordinary worlds beyond his mundane existence. The novella explores themes of exploration, fantasy, and the yearning for connection, as it entwines the protagonist's journey into a magical dimension with his personal struggles. In this tale, Wesley's quiet life transforms when he saves a tiny, otherworldly child named Mitsik from drowning. This encounter leads Wesley into a fantastical realm where he meets her parents, Clelling and Herif, who are galactic travel agents. They offer Wesley a chance to explore extraordinary planets, igniting his imagination and creativity as a writer. As he delves deeper into this newfound world, he struggles with his everyday responsibilities, familial obligations, and societal expectations, particularly regarding marriage to Miriam Harrell, who represents stability and convention. Ultimately, the allure of the extraordinary pulls Wesley away from what is expected of him, presenting a conflict between adventure and duty that culminates in his decisive departure to a place referred to as Sonimuira. The novella concludes on an open-ended note, leaving readers to ponder the choices we make between mundane existence and the call of adventure.
The man who found out
"The Man Who Found Out" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella published in the early 1950s. The story revolves around a cynical journalist named Fortenay, who is tasked with covering the investigation of a mysterious artifact discovered deep in the ocean. The narrative explores themes of skepticism and hubris, contrasting Fortenay's arrogance with that of the scientist Dr. Hans Weigand, who is determined to uncover the truth behind his findings. In the tale, Fortenay boards the oceanographic survey ship Cormorant, eager to expose what he believes will be a scientific fraud. As the two descend into the depths of Bartlett Deep in a bathysphere, Fortenay's arrogance is challenged by the darkness of the ocean and the ominous artifact looming ahead. When the bathysphere ultimately succumbs to the pressure of the abyss, the journalist unexpectedly finds himself thrust into a mythic realm alongside Weigand, where reality and legend converge. The novella culminates in Fortenay's realization of his own mortality and the consequences of his dismissive attitude towards the unknown, as they encounter a door that leads to what is ominously referred to as "Davy Jones' Locker."
The minister had to wait
"The Minister Had to Wait" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction story written in the early 1950s. The narrative revolves around a groundbreaking invention called the Di-tube, which is intended to create dimension tunnels through space. The story grapples with the ethical dilemmas of scientific advancement amidst global tension during the Cold War era, highlighting themes of responsibility and the unintended consequences of technological innovation. The plot centers on Dr. Doc Maxey, his assistant Jerry Bivins, and Bivins' daughter Dora as they attempt to demonstrate the Di-tube's capabilities. Initially, Dr. Maxey resists military attempts to weaponize his invention. However, pressure from military officials leads to a catastrophic experiment that opens a rift into a perilous subspace populated by monstrous entities known as Blazers. As these aliens begin to invade and drain Earth's nuclear resources, Jerry and Dora take it upon themselves to venture into the alien realm to confront the threat. Through a series of harrowing events, they manage to divert disaster, but not without serious consequences for their world and the nature of time itself. The climax reveals the complexities of dimensional travel, presenting both the promise and danger of human ingenuity.
To Remember Charlie By
"To Remember Charlie By" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story centers around a young boy named Joey, who is confined to a wheelchair and is grieving the loss of his one-eyed dog, Charlie. The narrative intertwines themes of faith, hope, and the extraordinary bond between a boy and his pet, ultimately suggesting that belief can alter reality in unforeseen ways. The plot unfolds in a trailer court where Joey waits in vain for Charlie, who has been hit by a car. As Joey mourns, he begins to exhibit strange abilities, claiming that he can move stars in the sky. His neighbor, Doc Shull, initially doubts these claims, attributing them to Joey's imagination and coping mechanism. However, as more stars seem to move in the heavens, the story blurs the lines between reality and the supernatural. Ultimately, through the emotional journey of the characters, Joey finds the strength and inspiration to get up from his wheelchair, symbolizing a profound transformation fueled by love and remembrance—a poignant testament to healing and the power of belief.
Control Group
"Control Group" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella written during the late 1950s. The story follows a crew from the Terran Reclamations as they investigate an enigmatic planet, Alphard Six, previously occupied by the alien Hymenops. The plot hinges on the crew's attempts to understand the nature of inhabitants who appear to have descended from an ancient Terran expedition but are lost in time, surrounded by the implications of alien control and misunderstanding. The narrative primarily follows Navigator Farrell and his colleagues Stryker and Gibson as they explore this seemingly abandoned world. Initially, they encounter hostility, leading to an unexpected crash. Captured and later freed, they learn that the current inhabitants are descendants of a human crew conditioned by the Hymenops to believe they are from an original Terran colony. Throughout their investigation, the crew grapples with uncertainties about alien motivations and the consequences of human adaptation over generations. Ultimately, the story culminates in a revelation of identity and purpose, expressing themes of survival, adaptation, and the complexities of colonization and coexistence across time and cultures.
Clean Break
"Clean Break" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around Oliver Watts, a veterinarian whose mundane life takes an extraordinary turn when he encounters a wealthy recluse and is drawn into a world filled with exotic animals, mysterious beings, and unexpected adventures. The novella explores themes of obligation, self-discovery, and escape from a humdrum existence. The narrative follows Oliver as he reluctantly adheres to family pressures to become a veterinarian, setting aside his childhood dreams of adventure. His life changes dramatically when he treats a polar bear owned by the eccentric millionaire Mr. Furnay, which leads him to discover that Mr. Furnay and his entourage are actually aliens. Amid the chaos, he encounters the captivating yet enigmatic Perrl-high-C-trill-and-A-above, who turns out to be involved with the alien creatures. Through a series of events, Oliver learns that his dull life can be transformed into an exhilarating journey, ultimately choosing to join the performers of an interstellar circus with Perrl, escaping the constraints he once thought defined him. This story highlights the allure of adventure and the potential for personal growth through unexpected circumstances.
Assignment's End
"Assignment's End" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella published in the early 1950s. The story revolves around Philip Alcorn, a man gifted with a unique ability to bring peace and happiness to those around him, but who suffers from unsettling hallucinations that reveal a deeper truth about his identity. The narrative unfolds in a futuristic setting, exploring themes of alienation, identity, and the potential consequences of one's talents, set against a backdrop of corporate intrigue and existential dilemmas. In the story, Philip Alcorn grapples with his gift of instilling calm in others while simultaneously facing a growing sense of dread tied to haunting visions of a barren, frozen landscape inhabited by faceless beings. As he navigates pressures from a ruthless recruiter and encounters another person like himself, he uncovers the truth of his origins and the reality of an impending transformation. The plot culminates in a dramatic confrontation involving his loved ones, ultimately forcing Philip to confront who he truly is and the past that has been obscured by conditioning. The novella masterfully interweaves personal stakes with broader implications of extraterrestrial influence, creating a gripping tale that explores both the burdens and the responsibilities of unique abilities.
Pet Farm
"Pet Farm" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novel produced in the early 1950s. The narrative revolves around an alien planet named Falak, depicting the exploration and discovery of its bizarre ecological system, particularly the disturbing relationship between the planet's human-like inhabitants and a species of colossal moths. The story delves into themes of alien psychology, survival, and the darker aspects of human endurance against overwhelming odds. In "Pet Farm," the protagonist, Farrell, is part of a Reclamations team sent to assess the remnants of human civilization on Falak, where they encounter a desolate environment populated by young, degenerated humans whose older counterparts have mysteriously disappeared. As they uncover the eerie nature of this society, the crew discovers that the natives are under the influence of the moths that emerge during the planet’s long winters. This leads to a chilling realization of a symbiotic relationship that maintains the human population in a constant state of youth and servitude. The story escalates as Farrell grapples with the moral implications of their Reclamation mission and ultimately decides to thwart it, leading to profound questions about freedom, humanity, and alien motivations.