Author
Algis Budrys
1931-2008
Algis Budrys (1931-2008) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Algis Budrys
Wall of Crystal, Eye of Night
"Wall of Crystal, Eye of Night" by Algis Budrys is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story is set in a future where advanced technologies such as a new video system called EmpaVid allow for the manipulation of emotions and perceptions. It delves into themes of ambition, competition, and the consequences of human desire within a high-stakes corporate environment. The narrative follows Rufus Sollenar, a powerful businessman who has gambled everything on the success of EmpaVid. As he faces off against his rival, Cortwright Burr, Sollenar's journey intertwines with a mysterious advisory figure named Mr. Ermine. After a series of violent confrontations and revelations about Burr's dealings with Martian engineers, Sollenar's ambitions unravel, leading to an exploration of identity, reality, and mortality. Ultimately, Sollenar’s quest for immortality culminates in a tragic and ironic twist, as Ermine, who embodies the very system that Sollenar sought to control, finds his own unexpected transformation. The novel weaves a complex narrative examining the intersections of technology, human aspiration, and the uncanny facets of existence.
Never meet again
"Never Meet Again" by Algis Budrys is a science fiction novella written during the mid-20th century, specifically around the time of the Cold War. The story focuses on themes of alternate realities and the consequences of choices made in different worlds, as it follows a scientist who has spent years working on a device that allows him to shift into a parallel universe. The narrative explores the philosophical implications of his work, particularly concerning lost opportunities and the nature of his existence. The protagonist, Professor Jochim Kempfer, is an aging scientist who grapples with the memories of his deceased wife, Marthe, while reflecting on the years spent in a drab routine dominated by his painful past. After activating his invention, he unexpectedly finds himself in a grim version of Berlin where Germany lost World War II, bringing into question the choices and sacrifices made by him and his contemporaries. As he reunites with Marthe, who has lived through her struggles in this alternate existence, Kempfer confronts the stark reality of their lives, the changes brought by the different outcomes of the war, and the burden of his scientific responsibilities. Ultimately, he must decide how to navigate this new world while reconciling the shadows of his former life, leading to a haunting exploration of grief, identity, and the notion of "what if."
Die, Shadow!
"Die, Shadow!" by Algis Budrys is a science fiction novel written during the early 1960s. The story centers around David Greaves, an intrepid hero who once aimed for the stars and in the course of time has become a god-like figure worshipped across the universe. The narrative unfolds as Greaves awakens from a long slumber on the planet Venus, where he had engineered an extraordinary survival capsule to protect him from death during a crash landing. Upon awakening, he learns that he is regarded as a deity by some and faces the challenges and consequences that accompany such status. The plot follows Greaves as he grapples with the implications of his newfound godhood while confronting the shadowy antagonist, Mayron, who represents a faction that has straddled the line between humanity and something darker. As tensions rise between the followers of a benevolent legacy and those who have chosen to align with the shadows, Greaves must engage in a fateful encounter with Mayron to determine the future of mankind and the souls tainted by the shadows. This introspective journey explores themes of identity, sacrifice, and the ever-present struggle between light and dark, inviting readers to examine what it means to be truly human amidst the allure of power and reverence.
Blood on my jets
"Blood on my jets" by Algis Budrys is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. Set against the backdrop of space travel, the story revolves around Ash Holcomb, a Detached Operative amidst the chaos of post-war criminal activities in the universe. The narrative delves into themes of betrayal, loyalty, and the quest for power, exploring the gritty underbelly of interplanetary life. The plot follows Ash Holcomb, who, while trying to distance himself from his violent past and seeking some semblance of a normal life, is unexpectedly drawn back into the fray when an old acquaintance, Pat McKay, reappears. She presents a tantalizing job opportunity that beckons Ash to take part in a high-stakes maneuver involving a powerful spaceship and the dangerous factions at play. As Ash navigates the treachery of his old life, he finds himself embroiled in a conflict with his former friend, Harry Thorsten, who has plans to exploit a new hyperspatial drive to change the balance of power in the universe. The intertwining fates of Ash, Pat, and Thorsten lead to a dramatic climax that forces Ash to confront both his past and the implications of his choices. The vivid action and complex character relationships make the book a gripping tale within the realm of science fiction.
The burning world
"The Burning World" by Algis Budrys is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book explores themes of freedom, societal organization, and the struggles that come with persevering ideals in a post-revolutionary world. Set in a future where a new society has emerged after a bloody regime change, it delves into the complexities of human relationships and governance as the characters grapple with their past and future. The story primarily revolves around Josef Kimmensen, the aging president of the Freemen's League, and his struggles to maintain a peaceful society amidst brewing troubles. As factions threaten their hard-won freedom, tensions escalate with the rise of Anse Messerschmidt, a charismatic and dangerous figure who seeks to exploit fears of external threats for his agenda. Kimmensen's daughter, Susanne, becomes entangled in this conflict, complicating his personal life as he tries to stave off a return to tyranny. Ultimately, Kimmensen must confront not only the external challenges from Messerschmidt and the potential violence from disenchanted factions but also the internal strife of his family as they navigate their own identities and beliefs in a changing world. The novel examines the cyclic nature of revolutions and the delicate balance between freedom, order, and chaos.
Firegod
"Firegod" by William Scarff is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around themes of power, deception, and the allure of godhood, exploring how ambition can lead to a person's downfall and the disconnect between perception and reality. The narrative follows D'hai Merssu, who rises from being a revolutionary to the Emperor of All the Suns. As he grapples with rebellion within his empire from Earthmen, Merssu concocts a plan to escape and establish himself as a god on a primitive planet. He travels through hyperspace to bring civilization to a new world while simultaneously setting himself up to be worshipped. However, upon his return, he discovers that his plan has backfired as the inhabitants do not recognize him as the divine being he sought to become. Ultimately, despite his grand ambitions, he is rejected and killed, leaving behind a legacy of worship that persists in his absence, illustrating the ironic nature of seeking divinity through deception.
Between the dark and the daylight
"Between the Dark and the Daylight" by David C. Hodgkins is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century, exploring themes of survival and the struggle for power within a confined society. The narrative unfolds in a dome that shelters the last remnants of humanity, focusing on the protagonist Brendan, who grapples with his authority over a group of men facing the unknown dangers of their world outside. The plot addresses the complexities of leadership, the instinct for survival, and the relationship between generations as they prepare for their children to leave the safety of their manufactured habitat. The story centers around Brendan, who is the current leader in a closed dome where generations have lived after their expedition crashed on an inhospitable planet. Tensions arise as Brendan's authoritarian approach clashes with other members of the group who want more transparency and involvement in monitoring their children, who will soon venture into the dangerous environment outside. As the day of opening the gates approaches, Brendan wrestles with his control over the nursery and the lives of the children, balancing his duty for the greater good against the growing dissent amongst his peers. The narrative builds to a climactic moment where Brendan's choices lead to an eruption of violence, reflecting the intense fear and primal instincts of a community on the brink of extinction.
Infiltration
"Infiltration" by Algis Budrys is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story explores themes of identity, survival, and the conflict between two factions—Insurgents and Watchers—who exist in a universe where individuals can take on new forms through a process called "chrysalids." The book delves into the complexities of humanity’s relationship with power, control, and the nature of existence itself. The narrative follows an Insurgent, who has been marooned on a strange planet and must navigate a conflict against the Watchers, who serve to keep order among the chrysalids. As he reflects on his dual identity, he reveals the philosophical and ethical dilemmas faced by both groups. The Insurgent’s internal struggle unfolds as he confronts both the consequences of his past actions and the impending clash with the Watchers. In a climactic encounter, he seeks both revenge and understanding, leading to a darkly symbolic confrontation that questions the nature of power, obligation, and brotherhood. The book ultimately raises profound questions about the human condition and the complexities of coexistence in a fractured society.
Desire No More
"Desire No More" by Algis Budrys is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story centers around Martin Isherwood, a young man with the singular ambition of piloting the first manned rocket to the moon. The narrative explores his struggle against societal disbelief and personal doubts while detailing his unwavering dedication to achieving his dream, all set against a backdrop of a nascent space age. The plot follows Martin Isherwood, who, despite his father's ridicule and societal skepticism about the possibility of manned rockets, dedicates his life to becoming a rocket pilot. As he gains experience and recognition, he becomes increasingly isolated in his pursuit of this dream, eventually leading to a critical point when he successfully lands on the moon. However, the journey to that point reveals his lack of connections in life beyond flying, which raises concerns about his mental state. In a twist of fate, a psychiatrist intervenes, stripping him of the thrill of discovery during his expedition, rendering the achievement hollow. The story ultimately presents a reflection on ambition, sacrifice, and the costs of pursuing a single-minded goal, portraying a profound sense of emptiness despite monumental success.
The Rag and Bone Men
"The Rag and Bone Men" by Algis Budrys is a science fiction novella written in the early 1960s. The narrative is set in a distant future where two characters, Maurer and Charpantier, interact with a mysterious being known as the Veld, who is attempting to create a new transporter to return to his home. The story explores themes of existential struggle, the search for identity, and the limitations of human knowledge when confronted with the unknown. The plot centers on Maurer and Charpantier as they navigate their relationship with the Veld, a powerful entity marooned on Earth who tries to replicate Veldish technology using Earthly materials. The story is steeped in metaphysics as Maurer fears the implications of the Veld's attempt to create something fundamentally different from what is possible with available resources. As the Veld works on his transporter, Maurer grapples with feelings of inadequacy and the existential dread of a world that is distanced from true understanding. The tale delves into the fragile boundaries between creation and destruction, and the tension between aspiration and reality, raising profound questions about what it means to seek one's heart's desire in a seemingly indifferent universe.
Citadel
"Citadel" by Algis Budrys is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book explores themes of human interaction, societal structures, and the complexities of extraterrestrial relations through the lens of an oppressive galactic bureaucracy. Its narrative follows individuals grappling with personal and societal responsibilities amidst the vastness of space, highlighting the struggles between personal desires and the demands of an intricate political landscape. The story centers on Martin Holliday, an aging man who seeks peace by colonizing a planet, only to become entangled in the machinations of the Solar Union's government, which is increasingly threatened by the ambitions of an alien civilization, the Dovenilids. As Holliday attempts to secure a final refuge, he unwittingly becomes a pawn in a larger game of interstellar politics, necessitating a close examination of his situation by Secretary Marlowe and his assistant Mead. They manipulate circumstances for their own purposes while trying to navigate an impending confrontation with the intelligent but ruthless Dovenilids. This narrative not only examines the personal costs of ambition and the quest for autonomy but also critiques the absurdities of bureaucratic governance and the often chaotic nature of human endeavors in the galaxy.
Riya's Foundling
"Riya's Foundling" by Algis Budrys is a science fiction novel likely written in the early to mid-20th century. The book explores the themes of connection and identity through the interaction between a young boy, Phildee, and a creature reminiscent of an intelligent cow named Riya. The narrative poses intriguing questions about what it means to be a mother and the nature of understanding across species. The story begins with Phildee's imaginative play and gradually shifts to Riya's journey, illustrating her longing to find a mate among wild creatures. As their paths converge, Riya's maternal instincts awaken upon encountering Phildee, who is confused and intrigued by her. Through their interactions, both characters experience an emotional transformation: Riya finds joy in nurturing, while Phildee grapples with his identity in an unfamiliar world. Ultimately, their bond transcends species, highlighting themes of love, belonging, and the unique connection that can exist between beings despite their differences.
The Barbarians
"The Barbarians" by Algis Budrys is a science fiction novel that appears to have been written in the mid-20th century. The narrative takes place in a post-apocalyptic America where remnants of nobility, barbarism, and armored warfare coexist in a society struggling to maintain order and identity amidst chaos. The likely topic of the book revolves around themes of betrayal, survival, and the complexities of human relationships within a fractured civilization. The story follows Giulion Geoffrey, a young nobleman who has just experienced a brutal battle against the invading barbarian forces, led by the enigmatic Hodd Savage, known as The Barbarian. Betrayed by his fellow nobleman, Harolde Dugald, during the battle, Geoffrey finds himself at the mercy of The Barbarian after surviving the clash. Together, they embark on a journey to reclaim Geoffrey's rightful lands while navigating the treacherous landscape filled with violence and shifting allegiances. As Geoffrey grapples with his family's legacy and confronts the harsh realities of power, he also develops an unexpected bond with The Barbarian and Myka, a woman he must help rescue. Ultimately, the story explores the intricate dynamics of nobility and barbarism, positionality in societal hierarchy, and the enduring nature of honor and survival in a chaotic world.
The Stoker and the Stars
"The Stoker and the Stars" by John A. Sentry is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story centers on a post-war Earth struggling for identity and existence while interacting with alien species. The narrative follows the experiences of a crew aboard an interstellar freighter, focusing particularly on the enigmatic stoker, a man whose past is steeped in conflict and whose pursuits are shrouded in mystery. In the novella, the unnamed narrator reflects on his past experience aboard the "Serenus", where he awkwardly interacts with a quiet stoker who has a complex history revealed through hints and implications. As the crew navigates their trade routes with alien races, they grow apprehensive about the stoker's intentions, especially given his military background and his past against their "sworn enemies." However, the story unfolds to depict the stoker's transformation and the eventual positive changes he brings about in human-alien relations. He symbolizes a bridge between worlds, challenging both his crew's and the reader's understanding of loyalty, sacrifice, and the essence of humanity amid the stars, leading to unexpected respect from the very beings they once viewed with animosity.