Author
Gordon R. Dickson
1923-2001
Gordon R. Dickson (1923-2001) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Gordon R. Dickson
The Stranger
"The Stranger" by Gordon R. Dickson is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around a mysterious alien spacecraft encountered by the crew of a mining ship, prompting themes of exploration, fear of the unknown, and the potential for understanding between different species. In the narrative, the crew members, Jeff and Peter Wadley, land on an unnamed planet and discover an alien ship that appears to be in distress. Despite Jeff's initial desire to flee from the situation out of fear for their safety, Peter insists on investigating, believing that the alien ship may require assistance. After deducing that the ship is likely a vessel for an enormous being, Peter and Jeff work together to right the ship using motor jacks. Their act of kindness ultimately leads to a triumphant moment when the alien ships away, revealing that they have forged a bond of friendship and understanding across species. The book encapsulates ideas of empathy, courage, and the profound impact of helping others, even when faced with fear of the unknown.
Time Grabber
"Time Grabber" by Gordon R. Dickson is a science fiction novel written during the early 1950s. The book explores themes of time travel and the consequences of tampering with history, focusing on an academic's unethical experimentation with the past. It presents a narrative that combines elements of historical fiction with speculative science. The storyline follows Philton J. Bugsomer, a sociomatist who disobeys the ethical guidelines of his field by using a device called the time-grapple to transport sixteen Christians from ancient Rome to the 27th century for his research. As he grapples with the ethical implications of his actions, the time disruption he causes threatens to unravel the very fabric of time. The main conflict escalates as Bugsomer must replace the Christians to avoid a catastrophic time collapse, leading to a series of comical and perilous situations involving Roman gladiators, historical misunderstandings, and the chaos that ensues when two very different time periods collide. Ultimately, the novel reflects on human nature, knowledge, and the risks inherent in scientific exploration.
No Shield from the Dead
"No Shield from the Dead" by Gordon R. Dickson is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story explores themes of power, blackmail, and the consequences of one's actions within a futuristic society characterized by personal shields that provide complete protection. The narrative centers around an unexpected confrontation between a high-ranking government official and an older man who reveals dark truths about the official’s past. The novella unfolds as Terri Mac, a government comptroller, finds himself trapped in a shielded room with an old man who knows potentially damaging secrets about him. As the old man confronts Terri with the haunting remembrance of a young woman’s tragic death, he reveals that Terri's ambition and ruthlessness played a role in her demise. The old man threatens to take his own life, framing Terri for murder, thus ensuring that his secrets will destroy the ambitious politician. The story culminates in a tense moment of moral reckoning and the devastating consequences of Terri's past actions, leading to his inevitable downfall as the authorities close in.