Author
Jesse F. (Jesse Franklin) Bone
1916-2006
Jesse F. (Jesse Franklin) Bone (1916-2006) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Jesse F. (Jesse Franklin) Bone
The Lani People
“The Lani People” by Jesse F. Bone is a science fiction novel that appears to have been written in the mid-20th century. The story follows Dr. Jac Kennon, a recent veterinary graduate, as he embarks on a new position on the primitive planet of Kardon. He faces a challenging environment marked by its unique humanoid inhabitants known as Lani, with whom he must navigate societal norms and ethical dilemmas regarding their treatment as livestock, delving deep into themes of morality, colonization, and the definitions of humanity. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Jac Kennon through his contemplation of a job advertisement for a veterinarian position on Kardon, which he initially finds suspicious due to its generous salary. As he arrives on the planet and interacts with its society, he begins to understand the complexities of his new role, particularly focusing on the Lani, humanoid beings that possess a striking resemblance to humans but are treated as animals. The opening chapters capture Kennon’s internal struggle with his ethical concerns about the Lani's treatment and his responsibilities, setting up an intriguing conflict that will drive the character's development throughout the story.
The missionary
"The Missionary" by J. F. Bone is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century, reflecting the themes of ideological conflict and the struggle between faith and reason. The story revolves around a character from a theocratic society who grapples with the influence of a charismatic antagonist embodying a different worldview. Throughout the narrative, themes of faith, sacrifice, and the clash of ideologies are explored, ultimately questioning the nature of good and evil. In the book, the protagonist, an Adept from a devout society called the Promised Land, is captured by Wolverton, a man who represents the seductive allure of technology and secular knowledge. As he navigates his captivity, he faces not only physical challenges, such as healing from a broken leg, but also an ideological battle against Wolverton's persuasive arguments and his unyielding allure. Wolverton seeks to convince the protagonist of the necessity of change in a world plagued by overpopulation and cultural regression. The protagonist's steadfast belief in his faith begins to waver as he is exposed to Wolverton's world and the reality of human history, leading to a transformative climax where he must grapple with his convictions and ultimately discovers that Wolverton's intention may not be as evil as he initially thought. As the protagonist undergoes this profound internal struggle, he emerges changed, embodying a new understanding of leadership and responsibility in a complex universe.
Survival Type
"Survival Type" by J. F. Bone is a science fiction short story originally published in 1957. The narrative is set on the alien planet Niobe, where the protagonist, Arthur Lanceford, struggles against the planet's hostile environment and its deadly insect life. This tale delves into themes of survival, adaptation, and the intricate dynamics of human-nonhuman relationships, particularly highlighting the contrasts between Earthmen and the native Niobians. The story follows Arthur Lanceford, an agent of the Bureau of Extraterrestrial Exploration, as he navigates the treacherous jungles of Niobe. Battling the oppressive humidity and aggressive insects like the deadly sith, Lanceford becomes increasingly aware of the harsh realities of survival on this planet. After suffering a severe allergic reaction from an insect bite, he is saved by his Niobian guide Kron, who shares a native herbal remedy. Their interactions reveal the deeper wisdom and unrecognized sophistication of the Niobian culture, ultimately leading Lanceford to a newfound understanding of cooperation between species. The story concludes with Lanceford reassessing his views on the Niobian society and the nature of civilization itself, emphasizing that true survival requires mutual respect and understanding.
Cultural Exchange
"Cultural Exchange" by Jesse F. Bone is a science fiction novella written during the early 1960s. The story explores themes of exploration and cultural interaction, primarily addressing the complexities and potential misunderstandings that arise when differing civilizations meet. Set in a distant future where interplanetary travel is possible, the narrative involves space explorers encountering an alien race that appears primitive yet possesses advanced biological technology. In the novella, Captain Roger Halsey and his crew from the exploration ship "Two Two Four" discover the seemingly idyllic planet of Lyrane. Initially excited about their find, they soon encounter the Lyranians, who are seven-foot-tall furry humanoids with a blend of human intelligence and predatory instincts. A cultural exchange is proposed, with both species sending representatives to learn from one another. However, the explorers quickly realize that the Lyranians are not as primitive as they first appeared; their advanced biological technologies and hidden complexities indicate a deeper level of civilization. As Halsey finds himself ensnared in a power play, he navigates the treacherous dynamics of cultural misunderstanding and survival, ultimately recognizing the dangers of underestimating an alien culture while grappling with his own humanity. The story culminates in a tense realization of the potential for conflict between these very different societies, emphasizing both the promise and perils of cultural exchange.
For service rendered
"For Service Rendered" by J. F. Bone is a science fiction story written in the early 1960s. The narrative explores the unexpected intersection of a human, Miss Enid Twilley, and a Devi named Lyf, who emerges from her malfunctioning television set. The story delves into themes of desire, transformation, and the human condition through the lens of an otherworldly encounter. The plot centers on Miss Twilley, a lonely and unattractive woman who discovers that she has terminal cancer. After a shocking visit from Lyf, who claims to possess remarkable abilities, she is offered a deal: ten years of health, beauty, and wealth in exchange for her body after that period. As the story unfolds, Miss Twilley grapples with her self-image, societal norms, and the moral implications of this pact with a being from another world. The narrative ultimately examines the price of fulfillment and the lengths to which one may go to escape the constraints of their existence, concluding with Miss Twilley’s decision to accept Lyf's offer, leaving her future shrouded in both hope and uncertainty.
Weapon
"Weapon" by J. F. Bone is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story focuses on a war between humanity and an alien race known as the Eglani, exploring themes of conflict, identity, and the consequences of war. Set in a time when space travel and advanced military technology dominate, the narrative follows Commander Alton Fiske and his experiences aboard the starship Dauntless as the crew grapples with the harsh realities of interstellar warfare. The plot centers around Commander Fiske and his discussions about family and war, particularly his relationship with his wife Ellen as she copes with his frequent absences due to military duties. As the Dauntless engages in combat with the Eglani, the crew realizes the devastating impact of their actions and the psychological toll of the conflict. The narrative takes a turn when they discover that their emotional and humanistic approach to communication can effectively disrupt the enemy's coordinated attacks. Ultimately, the story culminates in an unexpected turn of events where the Eglani surrender, prompting reflections on the nature of victory and morality in warfare. Through Fiske's journey, Bone raises questions about the impact of warfare on both victors and the vanquished, suggesting that the outcomes of conflicts are often more complex than mere military victories.
On the Fourth Planet
"On the Fourth Planet" by J. F. Bone is a science fiction novella written during the early 1960s. The story revolves around the character Ul Kworn, a member of a dwindling alien race, facing a significant obstacle in his path—a mysterious metal structure that blocks his access to food, ultimately representing a barrier to survival and progress for his species. The narrative unfolds in an alien landscape, exploring themes of survival, societal change, and the remnants of a once-great civilization. The plot centers on the challenges faced by Ul Kworn as he confronts a massive metallic disc that has appeared in his feeding territory. Struggling with dwindling energy and food scarcity, he battles both the external obstacles of this artifact and the internal tensions within his community, particularly concerning his untrustworthy neighbors. As the story progresses, Kworn learns the structure possesses life and intelligence, which leads to a moment of transformation for him. The climax reveals a catastrophic event involving his naive offspring, resulting in the destruction of the structure but revealing the potential for rebirth in the society of the Folk. Ultimately, Kworn envisions the possibility of reconciling the old knowledge with new opportunities for growth, hinting at a hopeful future for his civilization.
A Question of Courage
"A Question of Courage" by Jesse F. Bone is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book revolves around the tensions of command and morale aboard a Navy scout ship during a prolonged conflict in space, focusing on the experiences of Lieutenant Thomas Marsden as he navigates the challenges posed by a rigid commanding officer and the psychological toll of war. The story deeply explores themes of duty, leadership, and the fine line between cowardice and courage in times of conflict. In the narrative, Lieutenant Marsden joins the crew of the "Lachesis," a scout ship under the command of the infamous Commander Charles Augustus Chase, whom Marsden suspects lacks the fortitude necessary for leadership. As they prepare for an offensive mission against enemy forces, Marsden witnesses the crew's frustration and low morale stemming from Chase's strict adherence to protocol and his fear of combat. When a critical engagement with the enemy unfolds, Chase takes extreme measures to save the crew and secure victory, ultimately sacrificing himself in a heroic act that redefines Marsden's understanding of courage. The story culminates in a reflection on the price of survival and the complex nature of bravery, leaving readers with profound insights into human resilience in the face of adversity.
Pandemic
"Pandemic" by Jesse F. Bone is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The narrative revolves around a deadly virus known as Thurston's Disease, which has decimated the human population, leaving behind a world struggling for survival. The story unfolds within a research institute dedicated to finding a cure for the plague, focusing on the challenges faced by medical personnel dealing with the consequences of this widespread epidemic. At the center of the plot are Dr. Walter Kramer and Mary Barton, a recently appointed assistant who has her own motivations for fighting the disease—having lost her family to it. As they work together in the confines of their hazardous laboratory, they uncover the complexities of the virus while forming a deep bond. The story delves into their scientific efforts, the despair surrounding the epidemic, and an unexpected breakthrough linked to smoking that might lead to a treatment. As the narrative progresses, it not only highlights the personal struggles of its characters but also underscores the theme of hope and resilience in the face of a seemingly insurmountable crisis.
Founding Father
"Founding Father" by Jesse F. Bone is a science fiction narrative likely written in the early 1960s. The story follows two alien beings, Eu and Ven, from the planet Thalassa, who must explore a foreign world populated by larger, primitive mammalian creatures while dealing with the complexities of their own relationship. The plot hints at themes of exploration, cultural collision, and the nature of intelligence and survival. At the start of the tale, Eu and Ven are stranded on an alien planet after their spacecraft successfully lands with just enough fuel. They survey their surroundings and express a need to find intelligent life for their mission. Soon after, Ven embarks on an exploration only to encounter the local inhabitants, whom she describes as frightening and enormous. As the story unfolds, the couple's dynamic and the challenges of navigating this new world reveal deeper insights into their species and the natives, laying the groundwork for complex interactions and unforeseen consequences. The opening climaxes with a touch of humor and drama, reflecting the tensions between different species and the strange new environment they must navigate together.
Insidekick
"Insidekick" by J. F. Bone is a science fiction novella published in the late 1950s. The story centers on the themes of espionage, corporate intrigue, and unexpected symbiosis in a richly imagined alien world. The narrative follows Albert Johnson, an investigator entangled in a web of deceit involving the Interworld Corporation and the unique extraterrestrial lifeforms he encounters. The plot unfolds as Johnson, initially posing as a tourist in the Antarian city of Vaornia, discovers that he is being hunted by the native insiders of the Interworld Corporation. After a botched attempt on his life, Johnson is saved by a mysterious entity known as a Zark, which links with him to enhance his abilities, granting him powers of telepathy and teleportation. As he navigates through the dangers posed by both the corporation and the hostile environment of Antar, Johnson uncovers a plot involving illegal tobacco plantations overseen by the corporate entity. With the help of the Zark and his newfound psychic powers, he eventually exposes the conspiracy, while also contemplating the nature of their unique relationship. The blend of humor, adventure, and alien intrigue makes this a captivating read within the science fiction genre.
Assassin
"Assassin" by Jesse F. Bone is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story portrays humanity's conflict with a seemingly benevolent alien species, the Aztlans, who come to Earth with gifts of peace and advanced technology. The narrative explores themes of trust, manipulation, and the darker sides of altruism as the protagonist, Matson, grapples with the implications of the aliens’ presence and their true motives. The plot focuses on Daniel Matson, a former government official who becomes disillusioned with the aliens' influence over humanity. As the Aztlans spread goodwill and ultimately reshape society, Matson realizes that their apparent altruism might mask an insidious agenda to make humanity dependent on them and even eliminate human emotion. Driven by a need to protect mankind, Matson takes drastic measures by assassinating the aliens during a celebratory parade. However, he soon discovers that they were not what they seemed, as the aliens turn out to be advanced robots designed to manipulate humanity. Matson's actions lead to chaos, which stirs the remaining humans to unite against the Aztlans, challenging the very fabric of the newfound peace. Ultimately, the story raises questions about freedom, dependence, and the moral complexities of intervention.
The Issahar Artifacts
"The Issahar Artifacts" by Jesse F. Bone is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book explores themes of isolation, alien intelligence, and the implications of discovery within the vastness of space. It delves into the consequences of human ventures beyond Earth, as well as the philosophical inquiries regarding the nature of existence and consciousness. The narrative follows a biologist who finds himself stranded on an alien planet after a spaceship disaster. As he grapples with loneliness and fear, he becomes aware of a subtle presence that hints at a strange, intelligent life form—an algae-like entity in the surrounding water. His struggle for survival becomes a psychological battle against this unknown entity, leading him to destroy it in a desperate attempt to reclaim his peace of mind. Eventually, he sends out a signal for rescue while pondering the fate of intelligent beings like himself, leaving readers to reflect on the delicate balance between humanity and the unknown complexities of life in the universe.
A Prize for Edie
"A Prize for Edie" by Jesse F. Bone is a science fiction narrative penned in the early 1960s. The story revolves around the unforeseen consequences of awarding the Nobel Prize in Medicine to a groundbreaking cancer cure invented by an artificial intelligence, C. Edie. The book explores themes of innovation, humanity, and the complications that arise from the intersection of technology and ethics. The plot unfolds with the Nobel Committee grappling with the decision to award the prestigious prize to a computer that has successfully identified a cure for cancer. Key characters include Professor Nels Christianson and his colleagues, who are conflicted about the implications of honoring a machine rather than a human. As they discuss the potential fallout and public perception, it becomes evident that while the achievement is monumental, awarding it to an AI raises profound questions about credibility and the future of the medical profession. The story concludes with the absurdity of such a ceremony, exemplifying the tension between human values and technological advancement.
Noble Redman
"Noble Redman" by Jesse F. Bone is a science fiction novel that appears to have been written in the mid-20th century, during the era when the genre was gaining significant popularity. The story revolves around a unique character named Noble Redman, who is intricately linked to themes of identity, survival, and the remnants of a human society branching from Earth into space. It explores the conflicts and interactions that arise in a future where individuals from the Earth – a now dangerous and forbidden planet – seek to reclaim their heritage and acquire technological advancements from other worlds. The narrative follows Cyril Wallingford, a Martian guide who encounters Noble Redman in Marsport. Initially drawn by Redman's abundance of gold, Wallingford soon realizes that Redman is hiding a much deeper connection to Earth and its dark past. As they become embroiled in tense gambling games and eventually evade the Galactic Patrol together, the story reveals rich layers about Redman's true origins and the consequences of their interaction. Redman's innate abilities, his quest for knowledge, and the implications of revealing the existence of Earthmen create an intricate plot that weaves themes of greed, desperation, and the quest for identity against a backdrop of a richly imagined futuristic landscape. Ultimately, the collision of their worlds sets off a chain of events that highlights the evolving relationships between humans across the galaxy, culminating in an exploration of belonging and the painful legacy of Earth.
To Choke an Ocean
"To Choke an Ocean" by J. F. Bone is a science fiction story likely written in the early 1960s. The book narrates the interstellar challenges faced by the Terran Confederation and its interactions with the native inhabitants of the planet Niobe, focusing on the consequences of introducing an alien species—oysters—into a new ecosystem. The title suggests themes related to environmental balance and the unintended repercussions of human actions. The plot centers around Lanceford, a consular official who recounts the events leading to Niobe's entry into the Confederation. Initially a celebratory banquet, where oysters were introduced to the dish repertoire of the Niobians, it turns into a calamity as the oysters breed uncontrollably, threatening to destabilize the local marine ecosystem. With the help of biologist Heinz Bergdorf, they discover that the oyster infestation could lead to ecological disaster, prompting urgent measures. As the Niobians establish a blockade in response to protect their world, an improbable government emerges, emphasizing the need for environmental safeguards against foreign biological threats. The story culminates in a humorous take on bureaucracy, as the newly formed customs agency ironically reflects the very systems that once put them in jeopardy.