Author
Lester Del Rey
1915-1993
Lester Del Rey (1915-1993) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Lester Del Rey
Police Your Planet
"Police Your Planet" by Eric Van Lhin is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story follows the main character, Bruce Gordon, as he navigates the gritty landscape of Marsport, a city rife with crime, corruption, and social decay. Gordon finds himself sent to Mars as part of a dubious assignment, where he has to adapt to the harsh realities of life on the planet while grappling with his past and the expectations of the Solar Security office. The opening of the novel introduces Bruce Gordon during his journey to Mars, where he is marked as a "traitor" for exposing governmental scandals. As he disembarks, he quickly assesses his new environment—a slum-like area filled with poverty. Gordon's immediate goal is survival, but he carries the weight of his troubled past and Ministry orders to act as an informant. Events unfold that make it clear he will need to rely on his wits and experience in law enforcement to navigate the treacherous dynamics of Marsport’s criminal underbelly. The rich world-building is reinforced by vivid descriptions of the desolate Martian landscape and the interactions with various characters, setting the stage for Gordon's journey toward a deeper involvement in policing the chaotic world he has entered.
Keepers of the house
No description available.
...And It Comes Out Here
"...And It Comes Out Here" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction short story published in the early 1950s. The narrative explores complex concepts of time travel and self-reference, revolving around the themes of invention and causality. The story raises philosophical questions about the nature of existence and the potential consequences of meddling with time. The plot follows Jerome Boell, an engineer who invents a time machine, allowing him to revisit his past and ultimately create a paradox. After meeting his older self, he embarks on a journey to the future, where he retrieves an atomic generator that he will later claim to have invented. As the narrative unfolds, the distinctions between creator and creation blur, leading to the realization that Boell's inventions and the timeline's events are intricately connected in a loop that defies conventional understanding. The story grapples with the implications of such a timeline, leaving readers to ponder who truly is the inventor and what this means for the nature of knowledge and progress.
The Sky Is Falling
"The Sky Is Falling" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Dave Hanson, who finds himself in a bizarre world after apparently dying in an accident. He has been resurrected in a realm where the sky is literally falling apart, and he is tasked with repairing it using his engineering skills. The opening of the novel introduces Dave as he wakes up in an unfamiliar environment, surrounded by strange beings and strange rituals. Confused and disoriented, he struggles to regain his bearings while sensing that he has been resurrected after an accident with a bulldozer. He overhears conversations hinting at a dire situation involving a crumbling sky and magic. As he grapples with his new reality, he learns that he is viewed as an important figure due to his name and the legacy attached to it, expected to use his skills to mend the fractures in the sky that threaten the existence of this world. The narrative sets up a blend of science fiction elements with a fantastical twist, creating an engaging premise filled with intrigue and challenges that Dave must face.
Absolutely no paradox
"Absolutely No Paradox" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction short story published in the early 1950s. The narrative explores the implications of time travel and addresses the paradoxes associated with it, particularly why people from the future have not visited the present if time travel is possible. Through a conversation between old friends at a social club, the story delves into the philosophical and scientific dilemmas surrounding time travel. The plot centers around Ned Brussels, who recounts the story of his friend Pete LeFranc—a pioneer in time travel who had successfully sent a cat a few days into the future. As Ned grapples with the paradoxes of time travel, including the absence of time travelers, the conversation reveals the tension between faith in scientific advancement and real-world evidence. Ultimately, a young man, who turns out to be Pete himself, enters the scene, leading to a revelation that time machines only work in one direction; they cannot return to the past, thus eliminating the potential for paradoxes. The story leaves readers pondering the nature of time and the consequences of human curiosity in the realm of science.
Badge of Infamy
"Badge of Infamy" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story unfolds in a dystopian future where societal structures, governed by powerful medical and space lobbies, have left the protagonist, Dr. Daniel Feldman, as a pariah condemned for his actions. The narrative follows Feldman's struggle for survival, grappling with his past as a medical professional while contending with a deadly plague that threatens the Martian colonies. At the start of the novel, Feldman is introduced in a bleak and squalid flophouse, reflecting on his fall from grace after a tragic incident that led to him being ostracized. His situation worsens as he encounters a sick fellow lodger, highlighting both his helplessness and his medical training. Feldman's internal conflict is palpable as he battles his instincts to help the dying man against the fear of punishment from the Medical Lobby, which enforces strict regulations on medical practice. The opening sets the stage for Feldman's subsequent journey, moving through themes of ethical responsibility, societal control, and the fight against an emerging Martian disease, shaping a narrative that promises both tension and introspection as he navigates his complex world.
Earthbound
"Earthbound" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction short story published in the early 1960s. The narrative centers around the yearning for space exploration and addresses the themes of dreams, solitude, and human limitation. The story reflects Del Rey's imagination of a future filled with space travel and the impact it has on individuals who aspire to leave Earth behind for the stars. In the story, Clifton, a once-celebrated space hero, finds himself reluctantly back on Earth, surrounded by celebratory crowds. Feeling trapped and discontent, he encounters an old man named Ahasuerus, who has devoted his life to making space boots yet has never traveled beyond Earth. Their exchange reveals the deep longing Ahasuerus harbors for the cosmos, contrasting with Clifton's own frustration and disappointment toward his return. Moved by Ahasuerus's dream of going to space, Clifton offers him a place on his upcoming journey to Rigel. However, Ahasuerus feels bound by a destiny that keeps him on Earth, symbolizing the constraints that life can impose, despite one's aspirations to explore the universe.
Imitation of death
"Imitation of Death" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book delves into themes of identity and manipulation, exploring the moral implications of creating perfect duplicates of individuals for nefarious purposes. It presents a futuristic setting where advanced technology allows for the imitation of human beings, leading to dangerous political maneuvers. The story revolves around Max Fleigh and his accomplice, Slim, as they plot to overthrow Councilman Curtis using a similacrum—a highly realistic double created by the enigmatic Jeremiah Greek. As the plan unfolds, Fleigh feels confident that he can manipulate events to secure the power of the Plutarchy. However, as the similacrum begins to function independently, it presents unforeseen challenges that threaten Fleigh's plans. The climax reveals a twist where Fleigh faces the consequences of underestimating both Greek and his own creation, resulting in a tense confrontation that explores the complexities of loyalty and betrayal. Overall, the novel raises questions about the nature of reality and the moral lines that can be crossed in the pursuit of power.
And there was light
"And There Was Light" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story explores the dark themes of morality and the dire consequences of technological advancements, specifically focusing on the use of a devastating new weapon that threatens to alter the future of humanity. It tackles the idea of making radical societal changes through control of population and the ethics surrounding such decisions. The plot centers around Johann Volcek, a scientist who has developed a revolutionary method of controlling nitrogen fission, which becomes a tool for enemy manipulation. As he prepares for a significant test, we are introduced to his wife, Stefanie, who is recovering from a recent loss and represents innocence amidst the chaos. When the test is executed, Volcek struggles with the implications of his work, which is designed to gradually sterilize the population in the West, effectively extinguishing a race. The Director of Centralia, who oversees this project, emphasizes the necessity of this action for achieving peace. However, as the test unfolds, a critical error occurs, leading to catastrophic consequences that force Volcek to confront the moral implications of his actions and the tragic loss of Stefanie's dream of motherhood, leaving readers to ponder the true meaning of progress and sacrifice in the name of peace.
The Course of Logic
"The Course of Logic" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novella written in the early 1960s. The story explores themes of evolution, intelligence, and survival through the lens of alien creatures known as silths. As the narrative unfolds, the silths, who have lost their original form and major capabilities, interact with human beings, leading to reflections on logic, gender roles, and the nature of intelligence. The story centers around two silths, Arnek and his female mate Ptarra, who have survived centuries after escaping a destroyed universe. They discover a crashed probe and two human survivors, leading them to consider infiltrating the humans' bodies to continue their existence. As the silths track the humans and plan their next moves, discussions of evolution and logic emerge, revealing Ptarra's cold reasoning versus Arnek's more intuitive approach. Ultimately, they succeed in taking over the humans' forms, raising questions about identity and the potential for a new beginning in an unfamiliar galaxy. The narrative deftly interweaves action, mental conflict, and philosophical discourse, examining what it means to truly understand another being.
Thunder in space
"Thunder in Space" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The narrative is set against the backdrop of the Cold War, exploring the tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union as they navigate the treacherous landscape of military power in space. The book addresses the critical issues of nuclear arms, international relations, and the burdens of scientific advances intertwined with political maneuverings in a time of escalating crisis. The story centers around the American space station, the "Goddard", and its crew, who are grappling with the complexities of their situation as the threat of nuclear war looms large. The protagonist, Jerry Blane, finds himself unexpectedly in command as tensions escalate following the destruction of Soviet supply ships. As radiation levels from nuclear warheads begin to rise alarmingly, a series of events unfold that lead to a race against time to avert disaster. Amidst these challenges, Blane discovers the possibility of cooperation with their Russian counterparts, highlighting the potential for peace in an era fraught with conflict. Ultimately, the narrative culminates in a pivotal decision that could reshape humanity's trajectory in space, as both nations are forced to confront their escalating fears and the fragility of their coexistence.
The life watch
"The Life Watch" by Lester del Rey is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around themes of alien encounter and human survival as the protagonist, Dr. William Norden, finds himself grappling with the psychological trauma of surviving an attack by a mysterious alien race bent on exterminating humanity. The narrative delves into the collision between human emotion and mechanical logic, as Norden attempts to reclaim his own identity while serving a critical role in the defense against the alien threat. In the tale, Dr. Norden, initially presumed to be one of the last surviving humans after witnessing the brutal abduction of his colleague by aliens, struggles with his mental state and the chilling implications of living in the shadow of an omnipresent enemy. As he is rescued and brought to a new base, he becomes embroiled in the desperate scientific efforts to devise a way to detect and shield humanity from the aliens. Throughout the course of his work and interaction with the base's personnel, including his assistant Pat, he uncovers layers of conspiracy regarding his own existence and the manipulative nature of the aliens. Ultimately, as he develops a weapon based on a unique understanding of life and its energy signatures, the narrative evolves into a gripping exploration of vengeance, identity, and the complexity of war against a ruthless foe.
The band played on
"The Band Played On" by LESTER DEL REY is a science fiction novella published in the late 20th century. The story revolves around the life of a space garbage man named Captain Thomas Murdock, exploring themes of heroism, duty, and the often overlooked importance of menial tasks in the grand context of space exploration. Del Rey's narrative provides a unique twist on the traditional space adventure by emphasizing the significance of seemingly mundane jobs in sustaining the larger operations of space travel. The plot follows Murdock as he grapples with his identity and role as the 'garbage man' for a space station, contrasting his work with the more celebrated tasks of heroic pilots. When an emergency arises in the space station due to toxic air, Murdock’s experience and knowledge become crucial. He volunteers for a dangerous mission to deliver necessary filters, proving that every role, no matter how unglamorous, holds immense value. The narrative culminates in a perilous return leg where Murdock navigates a perilous descent amidst a storm, ultimately leading to his recognition as a hero, albeit reluctantly. The story invites readers to consider the unseen contributions of those who maintain the systems that enable grand adventures, making it both an engaging and thought-provoking read.
Battleground
"Battleground" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century, specifically around the 1950s. The story explores the theme of survival and the catastrophic potential of an alien culture threatening humanity. Set against a backdrop of space travel, the narrative unfolds as the crew of a hypercruiser investigates various habitable planets, discovering the remnants of previously advanced civilizations that have mysteriously perished. The plot centers on Acting Captain Lenk and his diverse crew as they navigate the complexities of their mission, encountering a chilling pattern of destruction across the planets they explore. Each site shows evidence of once-thriving cultures that have been annihilated, raising questions about an impending doom heading toward Earth. As Lenk and his crew uncover the truth about the alien races and their respective downfalls, they grapple with concepts of faith, survival, and the cyclical nature of civilization's rise and fall. Ultimately, their return to Earth reveals that the fate of other races may soon be mirrored in humanity itself, leading to profound reflections on the future of the human race.
Victory
"Victory" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novel framed within the context of future interstellar warfare, likely penned in the mid-20th century, around the 1950s. The story explores themes of bravery, loyalty, and the political complexities of intergalactic relations, highlighting a post-apocalyptic vision of Earth and the consequences of cowardice in times of war. The protagonist, Captain Duke O'Neill, grapples with the realities of a world that abandoned him and his fellow soldiers during a desperate fight against alien enemies. The narrative revolves around Captain Duke O'Neill's return to Meloa after years of warfare against the Throm alien race. As he navigates a devastated and changing world, he is confronted with the stark realities of survival and betrayal, both from Earth and within the ranks of humanity. The story takes a deeper look at the psychological and moral struggles faced by soldiers returning to a planet that has become complacent in its neutrality. As political tensions rise and new threats emerge, O'Neill is faced with choices that challenge his understanding of duty and identity. Ultimately, he must confront not only the past but also how he fits into a future embroiled in deeper conflicts that blur the lines between friend and foe. The book intricately weaves O'Neill's personal journey with the larger implications of interstellar diplomacy and war, culminating in a thought-provoking conclusion about the nature of victory itself.
No Strings Attached
"No Strings Attached" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction short story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores complex themes of desire, morality, and the consequences of one’s choices through the lens of dark humor and fantasy elements. The story revolves around an unhappy marriage and a whimsical encounter with a demon, leading to unexpected and grim outcomes. The plot centers on Henry Aimsworth, who is deeply dissatisfied with his marriage to Emma, a woman bound to clichéd thoughts and behaviors. Frustrated and desperate for freedom, Henry discovers a method to summon a demon named Alféar using an old book filled with spells. When he impulsively asks the demon to help him eliminate his wife, he believes he is free from any moral repercussions, as Alféar assures him that there are "no strings attached." However, the story takes a haunting turn when Henry's actions lead to unintended consequences, revealing that not only are there strings attached, but they are far more binding than he anticipated. Ultimately, the tale is a commentary on the perils of seeking easy solutions to complex human problems and the irony of one's desires leading to their destruction.
Dead Ringer
"Dead Ringer" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Dane Phillips, a journalist drawn into a chilling conspiracy involving aliens that have infiltrated human society. It explores themes of identity, the nature of humanity, and the psychological struggles faced by Phillips as he uncovers extraordinary truths about mortality and human existence. In the narrative, Dane Phillips grapples with a traumatic past and the unsettling realization that some humans may not be what they seem. After surviving a traumatic war experience, he believes that some individuals, including a former comrade who appears mysteriously alive after death, are aliens posing as humans. As he exhausts his efforts to expose this shocking truth, he finds himself dismissed by editors and faces increasing isolation. His life spirals further when he is manipulated into a psychiatric facility where he fears undergoing brainwashing. The climax reveals that his desperate actions lead to horrifying self-discovery, demonstrating a blend of horror and science fiction as his own body becomes the vessel for the alien-like abilities he despises. The story masterfully portrays the fine line between sanity and insanity in the face of uncomprehended realities.
Operation Distress
"Operation Distress" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The narrative revolves around the challenges faced by Bill Adams, the first space pilot to Mars, who returns home only to find himself afflicted by an unknown and potentially fatal ailment. The book explores themes of isolation, fear of the unknown, and the fragility of human existence in the vastness of space. In the story, Bill Adams embarks on a mission to Mars but experiences severe itching and a mysterious rash during his journey back to Earth. As he grapples with the realization that he might have contracted an alien disease, the tension escalates when Earth authorities decide to quarantine him on the Moon to prevent any potential contamination. With a young, inexperienced doctor arriving to aid him, the narrative captures his physical and emotional turmoil. Eventually, it is revealed that Bill's symptoms result from an allergic reaction to cat fur, rather than a grave disease, highlighting both the absurdity of his plight and the unpredictability of space missions. The story concludes with Bill's shift from a potential hero to a man eager to keep his embarrassing ordeal a secret, ultimately blending humor with the serious undertones of space exploration.
Spawning Ground
"Spawning Ground" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around humanity's desperate need for survival as they face the impending destruction of the Solar System, pushing them to explore and settle new worlds. The narrative explores themes of adaptation and the potential for human evolution in response to alien environments. In the book, Captain Gwayne and his crew aboard the starship Pandora arrive on a mysterious planet where they encounter strange, blob-like creatures and primitive humanoids. When two young cadets are captured by these humanoids, Gwayne leads a rescue mission, only to discover a shocking truth: the planet's natives possess the ability to transform human beings. The captured crew member, Captain Hennessy, has undergone significant changes after years on the planet, revealing insights into the blob creatures and their intentions. Ultimately, Gwayne realizes that they cannot return to Earth; instead, they must stay and adapt to this new world, allowing for the continuation and transformation of humanity in a new form.
The Dwindling Years
"The Dwindling Years" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. It explores themes of aging, immortality, and the human experience in a future where rejuvenation is possible, but not without complications. The story centers around Arthur Giles, a man grappling with the implications of this advanced medical technology on his life and family connections. In the narrative, Arthur Giles, the chairman of Exodus Corporation, faces a stark reality when he discovers that his recent rejuvenation treatment has failed, leaving him to confront the specter of aging for the first time in centuries. As he navigates his deteriorating health and the implications of a definitive lifespan, he becomes increasingly isolated from family ties and long-held ambitions. The world around him seems to move on without him, highlighting the broader societal impact of extended life and the quest for knowledge. Ultimately, Giles decides to embrace a new opportunity, volunteering for a risky space project that could open pathways to new worlds, motivated by a desire to reconnect with his family and regain a sense of purpose.
Pursuit
"Pursuit" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around Wilbur Hawkes, a man who is caught in a mysterious and terrifying situation, having lost his memory for the last seven months, during which dark and inexplicable events transpired. As he navigates the dangers of being pursued, he grapples with his fractured consciousness and the lurking threat of unknown forces. The opening of the novel presents Wilbur Hawkes awakening from a nightmare filled with dread and confusion, panicking upon discovering that time has slipped away from him. He senses he is being hunted and experiences bizarre occurrences around him that hint at something sinister. As he frantically attempts to escape his pursuers, he encounters various elements of danger, including destruction at his apartment and strange, extraordinary events that defy logic. His journey unfolds with a mix of suspense, urgency, and an exploration of darker themes concerning memory, fear, and identity, setting the stage for a thrilling narrative.
Let 'Em Breathe Space!
"Let 'Em Breathe Space!" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story unfolds aboard the spaceship "Wahoo", which carries a crew of eighteen men and two women on a treacherous five-month expedition to Saturn. As tensions rise due to cramped quarters, inadequate food, and mysterious accidents that threaten their survival, the crew finds themselves facing not only cabin fever but also the very real possibility of murder among them. The opening of the book establishes a tense atmosphere, revealing protagonist Paul Tremaine’s frustrations with the onboard dynamics and his growing animosity towards his fellow crew members. He recounts previous incidents that have put the scientists at risk, including food poisoning and a potential sabotage. As he prepares to confront the day, a commotion breaks out in the mess hall, indicating further strife among the crew. When Tremaine discovers the corpse of Hendrix, the expedition's biologist, among the wilting hydroponics plants, panic sets in, revealing the underlying deceit and rising threat of murder as the crew's air and food supplies dwindle due to inexplicable sabotage. The stage is set for a gripping mystery as the characters must grapple with fear, distrust, and the fight for survival.