Author
Raymond Z. (Raymond Zinke) Gallun
1911-1994
Raymond Z. (Raymond Zinke) Gallun (1911-1994) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Raymond Z. (Raymond Zinke) Gallun
The Planet Strappers
"The Planet Strappers" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story follows a group of ambitious young people, referred to as the "Bunch," who share dreams of space exploration and colonization. The narrative centers around Frank Nelsen and his companions as they prepare to embark on a journey into the cosmos, driven by their aspirations and the challenges that lie ahead. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the Bunch as they gather in a hobby shop to unpack and marvel at a low-cost space suit, the Archer Five. Among them are varied characters: Frank, a thoughtful leader; Gimp, a mechanically talented but physically disabled member; and Eileen, who is eager to prove herself in a male-dominated field. The opening portion establishes their camaraderie, their fervent aspirations, and the societal hurdles they face as budding astronauts. As they navigate their preparation for space travel, excitement mixes with underlying fears of the unknown, setting the stage for a blend of adventure and personal growth as they aim to conquer the challenges of the Big Vacuum.
People Minus X
"People Minus X" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel written in the late 20th century. The story begins with Ed Dukas, a young man living in a time of advanced technology and scientific discovery, who experiences a bizarre phenomenon involving writing appearing on paper seemingly by itself. As the narrative unfolds, it delves into themes of technological advancement, human nature, and the consequences of striving for immortality, while Ed grapples with the memory of his uncle, Dr. Mitchell Prell, and the catastrophic events that have unfolded due to scientific experiments. The opening of "People Minus X" introduces Ed Dukas as he writes letters and finds traces of another presence in his room when mysterious ink begins to form words on his paper. This unsettling occurrence sparks Ed’s memories of his past, particularly his uncle, a well-known scientist who vanished after a catastrophic explosion linked to his experiments. As the story progresses, we learn about Ed's troubled childhood shaped by technological marvels and the looming specter of death. The atmospheric tension reveals Ed's conflicted feelings towards his uncle's legacy, technology, and his desire to understand the future ahead of him, setting the stage for a narrative that explores the intricate connections between humanity, science, and the unknown.
Space Oasis
"Space Oasis" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel written in the early 1940s. The story revolves around the dreams of space miners in the asteroid belt who aspire to create a new paradise in the void of space while confronting a corrupt shipping magnate, Norman Haynes, who seeks to maintain his control over the lucrative resources of the asteroids. The novel explores themes of ambition, progress, and the human spirit's resilience against adversity. The narrative follows Chet Wallace, a seasoned miner, and his friend Nick Mavrocordatus, who discovers a rich ore deposit that could change their lives forever. Inspired by the dream of creating a rejuvenated asteroid resembling Earth, Nick and his family set out to terraform asteroid 487 to sustain life. However, their ambitious plans attract the ire of Haynes, who resorts to sabotage and violence to maintain his grip on power. As chaos ensues, Chet and his companions face dire challenges — including losing Nick and the kidnapping of Irene Mavrocordatus — leading to a climactic confrontation with Haynes that tests their resolve and determination to forge a new beginning in the cosmos. Ultimately, "Space Oasis" is a gripping story of hope, sacrifice, and the enduring quest for a better future amidst desolation.
The crystal ray
"The Crystal Ray" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel written in the late 1920s. Set in a futuristic world during the war year 2141 A.D., the story explores the potential of newly discovered forms of potent rays emitted by mysterious materials, delving into themes of adventure, danger, and the quest for scientific advancement. The narrative combines elements of thrilling warfare and the exploration of the unknown, emphasizing human resilience in the face of dire circumstances. The plot follows two aviators, George Calhoun and Joseph Pelton, who, while on leave, decide to explore an ominous mountain dubbed "The Devil's Nest" in the Andes. During their expedition, they encounter an ancient legend tied to the mountain and discover sinister evidence of its past. As the story unfolds, they uncover a unique crystal, which Pelton later identifies as a significant scientific breakthrough known as "andite." This substance leads to the development of the devastating weapon called the crystal ray, crucial in the struggle against an invading Asiatic air fleet. Ultimately, Pelton's discovery transforms the tide of war, yet at a dire personal cost, culminating in his heroic sacrifice for the greater good.
Invaders of the Forbidden Moon
"Invaders of the Forbidden Moon" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel written in the early 1940s. Set in a futuristic universe where space travel is possible, the story focuses on the dangers surrounding Io, one of Jupiter's moons known for its catastrophic energy barrier that destroys any craft attempting to approach. The narrative explores themes of exploration, the quest for knowledge, and the perplexing consequences of humanity's ambitions. The storyline follows Evan Harwich, an interplanetary patrolman who witnesses the fatal destruction of an experimental spaceship attempting to breach the forbidden reaches of Io. Despite the dangers, Paul Arnold, the son of the ship's deceased inventor, seeks to investigate the mysterious forces at play on the moon, believing there is advanced technology within. Harwich joins Arnold on a perilous adventure, ultimately crashing onto Io with limited survival gear. Amidst the ruins of an ancient civilization, they unveil the history of the once-great Ionians who, having entrusted their existence to machines, regressed into a primal state. The plot thickens as they confront the treacherous George Bayley, who exploits Io's powerful technology for his own gain, leading to a climactic struggle that shapes the fate of all involved. Ultimately, the novel culminates in profound reflections on the relationship between technology, power, and the human condition.
The Revolt of the Star Men
"The Revolt of the Star Men" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows Austin Shelby and Janice Darell, who find themselves embroiled in a mysterious and dangerous encounter with Hekalu Selba, a Martian nobleman with unclear intentions. As they navigate through a drama filled with suspense and intrigue, the characters face threats posed by both alien beings and sinister human plots. At the start of the story, the characters are on the Neilson-Aldebar space liner, "Ekova", where young Janice unexpectedly reunites with Hekalu Selba after he had supposedly been on a quest for ancient artifacts on Mars. Tension arises when Austin, Janice’s companion, feels an unsettling aura surrounding Hekalu. When strange and alarming occurrences begin to haunt Austin’s thoughts, the narrative hints at deeper layers of mysterious plots involving ancient treasures and possibly threatening beings. The opening sets the stage for a thrilling adventure as the characters grapple with jealousy, danger, and unknown cosmic forces that will soon propel them into a battle for their safety and the fate of their worlds.
Return of a Legend
"Return of a Legend" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novella that presents a compelling narrative set against the harsh backdrop of Mars, likely written in the early 1950s. The story explores themes of survival, adaptation, and the human spirit in a place steeped in alien history and mystery. The main focus is on the character of Dave Kort, a wilderness tramp who showcases the resilience and ingenuity required to thrive in the red planet's unforgiving environment. The novella follows Joe Dayton and his wife Doran as they search for their missing nephew, Will Terry, who has become accustomed to living in the wilds of Mars following the tragic disappearance of his father, Frank Terry. As the search progresses, Dayton and Doran navigate the treacherous Martian terrain and confront the realities of survival in an alien world. This journey leads them to encounter remnants of the Martian civilization while grappling with the changes in their own humanity. Throughout their adventure, elements of Martian mythology and the allure of the planet profoundly influence the characters, ultimately culminating in a realization that they must embrace their new lives on Mars, blending human experience with Martian legacy.
Eyes That Watch
"Eyes That Watch" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel written during the early 20th century. The book explores the themes of exploration, the limits of scientific knowledge, and the potential consequences of wielding power beyond human understanding. The protagonist, Sam Conway, returns to Earth after an exploratory mission on Mars, where he uncovers a mysterious source of ancient knowledge that holds immense power. In this tale, Sam Conway struggles to adjust to life back home after his harrowing experiences on Mars. He is haunted by memories of survival and a secret he brought back—a cube containing Martian knowledge that offers extraordinary scientific advancements but also poses dangerous risks. As he delves into experiments inspired by the ancient data, a catastrophic accident occurs, resulting in an uncontrollable release of atomic energy threatening both himself and the world. With the help of a mysterious cosmic intervention, Sam faces the consequences of his ambition, ultimately realizing the importance of caution in the pursuit of scientific discovery and the potential perils of humanity's insatiable quest for power.
Dawn of the Demigods
"Dawn of the Demigods" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story unfolds in a future where humanity has expanded its reach into the solar system, but it reflects on the profound challenges and fears stemming from rapid technological advancements. The main character, Charles Harver, navigates a world marked by the remnants of human conflict and the exploration of alien technology, leading to encounters that question the essence of humanity itself. The opening of the novel introduces a post-apocalyptic Earth, where the protagonist recalls the history of humanity's advancements in space exploration and the inventions that led to both wonders and disasters. Harver grew up on the Moon, raised by a technician and a scientist, revealing an environment rife with innovation yet shadowed by the complexities of progress. In his journey, Charles demonstrates remarkable robotic capabilities during a fire rescue, highlighting the merging of human intellect with robotic advancement. As the narrative unfolds, readers are drawn into a quest for understanding and mastery of emerging technologies, facing philosophical questions about identity, existence, and humanity’s future in the face of rapid change, setting the stage for a layered and thought-provoking tale.
Give Back a World
"Give Back a World" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The narrative centers around a group of humans on a mission to colonize Mercury, a planet steeped in the remnants of ancient cosmic conflicts involving Martians and Xians. The story explores themes of exploration, survival, and the repercussions of humanity’s history as they uncover the mysteries of this hostile environment. The plot follows Rick Mills and his companions as they disembark on Mercury, only to discover the enigma surrounding a fellow team member, Frank Fane, who is the sole survivor of a previous expedition. Fane's knowledge of Mercury's dark past and his motivations lead Rick and his team into a series of harrowing encounters with automated war machines from a long-forgotten civilization. As tensions rise and Fane's intentions become increasingly questionable, Rick must navigate both the dangers of the planet and the psychological battles within their group. Ultimately, the men race against time to unlock the planet’s potential and prevent Fane from using destructive weapons, leading to a rebirth of Mercury as it rotates once more, hinting at a brighter future for the planet.
The Raiders of Saturn's Ring
"The Raiders of Saturn's Ring" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel likely written in the early 1940s. The book unfolds in a futuristic setting on Titan, one of Saturn's moons, where humans have established a colony that faces the threat of invasion from the aggressive, furry Callistans of Jupiter's moon, Callisto. The narrative centers on a struggle for survival against overwhelming odds, exploring themes of bravery, resilience, and the ingenuity of the human spirit. The story follows Ron Leiccsen, the nephew of a legendary explorer who discovered Titan, as he grapples with the impending doom of his colony. With the Callistans launching destructive raids, Ron proposes a pragmatic retreat, whereas others advocate for defiance. After a local horticulturist reveals a hidden plan involving seeds from Earth that could turn the tide against the alien invaders, Ron and a determined teacher, Anna Charles, embark on a perilous mission to retrieve these seeds from Mars. Their journey is fraught with danger, culminating in a creative escape through Saturn's Rings, leading to an unexpected twist where the seeds prove to be both a weapon and a potential salvation against the Callistans’ oppression. Ultimately, the invaders underestimate the resilience of the Earth colonists, resulting in a clever and ironic victory.
Stamped Caution
"Stamped Caution" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel crafted during the early 1950s. The narrative centers around a group of scientists who encounter an extraterrestrial craft that has crashed on Earth and the repercussions of their discovery. The themes explored include the complexities of potential interspecies communication and the inherent dangers of initial contact between humans and alien life forms. The story unfolds with the discovery of a wrecked alien spaceship and the examination of its peculiar contents by a team of scientists led by Colonel Miller. Among the vital findings is a small, encased creature soon named Etl, which the team raises and studies over several years. As the plot progresses, Etl evolves from a bewildering infant-like entity to a sentient individual, displaying intelligence and curiosity akin to that of a human child. Ultimately, the team embarks on a journey to Mars with Etl in an effort to establish contact with his species. The plot climaxes with a tense encounter with Martians, where the initial fear and prejudice give way to a glimmer of hope for understanding and cooperation between Earth and Mars, illustrating both the peril and possibility of interstellar relations.
The Eternal Wall
"The Eternal Wall" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel written in the early to mid-20th century. The story explores themes of death, resurrection, and evolution, focusing on the concept of humanity’s legacy in a far-distant future. It likely examines the nature of existence and the implications of advancements in science through a speculative lens. The narrative follows Ned Vince, a young man who dies in a car accident but is resurrected a million years later by an intelligent race of rodent-like beings known as Loy Chuk and his kind. Upon awakening, Ned confronts a dramatically transformed Earth, where humans are extinct and his own existence is reduced to an archeological curiosity. As he grapples with this overwhelming reality, Loy Chuk tries to integrate Ned into his civilization, ultimately contemplating the possibility of returning him to his own time. However, as Ned realizes the impossibility of reversing time, he must come to terms with his new reality while maintaining hope for a better fate than mere observation as a historical artifact.
Asteroid of Fear
"Asteroid of Fear" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s, a period marked by the post-World War II fascination with space exploration. The book centers on the themes of survival and human resilience as it follows John Endlich, a new settler trying to make a life for his family on the harsh and desolate asteroid Vesta. The narrative reflects on the challenges of homesteading in space, the psychological strain of isolation, and the clash with dangerous miners who embody the raw, untamed side of interplanetary life. In "Asteroid of Fear," John Endlich and his family arrive on Vesta with hopes of establishing a prosperous homestead. Unfortunately, they encounter hostility from a group of rough asteroid miners, particularly Alf Neely, who taunt and threaten them. As tensions escalate, Endlich struggles with his impulse to fight back versus the need to protect his family. The story unfolds with themes of fear, bravery, and eventual resolution as Endlich learns to stand up for himself in an unpredictable environment, ultimately finding a way to forge a new life and community on the asteroid amidst the remnants of a once-thriving civilization. The plot weaves together personal conflict, the desire for belonging, and a hopeful vision of restoring life to a barren landscape.
Big Pill
"Big Pill" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel written during the early 1950s. Set on Titan, one of Saturn's moons, the narrative explores the complex challenges of space colonization and the consequences of human ambition. The story revolves around a catastrophic accident involving a flawed piece of equipment, which results in the tragic loss of lives and serves as a catalyst for the protagonist, Bert Kraskow, to seek retribution against the negligence that led to the disaster. The plot unfolds with Bert Kraskow grappling with the recent death of his younger brother, Nick, in an accident caused by faulty airdome equipment. In his quest for justice, Bert becomes embroiled in a power struggle with the unscrupulous Trenton Lauren, the head of Space Colonists' Supply, which produced the defective equipment. As tensions rise, Bert and his wife Alice decide to harness a dangerous yet groundbreaking device called the "Big Pill," initially invented by the murdered scientist Doc Kramer, to transform Titan into a more habitable environment. The novel culminates in an explosive confrontation where Bert must not only fight for justice but also for the survival of the colonists, ultimately leading to a revitalized Titan and a glimmer of hope for humanity's future in space.
Terror out of the past
"Terror out of the Past" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel written in the early 1940s. The story revolves around Perry Wilcox and Doctor Roderick Murgatroyd as they uncover the secrets of an ancient civilization buried within the Earth. Through their exploration, the protagonists stumble upon advanced technology and mechanized guardians that once protected this mysterious society. The book touches on themes of adventure, curiosity, and the unforeseen consequences of human exploration. The narrative begins with Wilcox and Murgatroyd discovering a hidden fortress while drilling into a knoll, revealing evidence of an ancient civilization. As they dig deeper, they encounter automated machines and robots, which escalate into a conflict involving modern military forces. The protagonists soon find themselves shrunk down to a miniature size and trapped within this hidden world. They uncover the tragic history of the civilization and its downfall, as well as the machinations of Lyman Kerwin, a corrupt businessman seeking to monopolize their technology. The story culminates in a battle that not only tests the characters' wit and perseverance but also underscores the dangers of greed and ambition against the backdrop of forgotten wonders.
Comet's Burial
"Comet's Burial" by Raymond Z. Gallun is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The story unfolds in the harsh environment of the Moon, where explorers venture to uncover its mysteries and resources. The narrative primarily explores themes of survival, ambition, and the pursuit of a better future amidst one of humanity's most daunting frontiers. The plot follows Arne Copeland and Jess Brinker as they navigate the lunar landscape, drawn together by dreams of prosperity and sustainability on the barren Moon. Jess, burdened by the notorious reputation of his father, seeks to rectify his legacy by attempting an audacious plan involving Brulow's Comet to create a livable environment on the Moon. As they undertake this perilous mission, they face dangers not only from the desolate environment but also from fellow adventurers and the legal system that threatens their lives. Ultimately, they succeed in deflecting the comet to impact the Moon, leading to unforeseen consequences that bring notoriety and later vindication, reflecting both the potential and risks inherent in human ambition.