Author
Robert E. Gilbert
1924-1993
Robert E. Gilbert (1924-1993) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Robert E. Gilbert
Hunt the Hog of Joe
"Hunt the Hog of Joe" by Robert E. Gilbert is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around Ube Kinlock, a hunter summoned by the Galactic Government to eliminate a deadly creature known as the Hog, which poses a significant threat to the inhabitants of Planet Maggie. The book explores themes of survival, cultural clashes, and the consequences of colonialism, set against a backdrop of a strange planet governed by unconventional laws that challenge Kinlock's understanding of morality and coexistence. The storyline follows Ube Kinlock as he navigates the unique and often bizarre societal norms of Maggie while on his mission to hunt the Hog. Upon his arrival on the planet, Kinlock quickly encounters resistance from the local authorities, particularly from Dominant Olaf Ypsilanti, who is reluctant to accept his presence. Alongside Betty Toal, a spirited local hunter, Kinlock discovers that the Hog is not merely a mindless beast, but a creature possessing a level of intelligence and a voice that challenges the reasons for its extermination. As Kinlock grapples with ethical dilemmas surrounding his mission, the narrative unfolds with thrilling encounters and significant revelations about the Hog's nature, ultimately leading to a climax that forces Kinlock to reconsider his understanding of life, death, and the interconnections of beings across galaxies.
Outside Saturn
"Outside Saturn" by Robert E. Gilbert is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story unfolds in a futuristic setting where space travel and the exploration of Saturn’s rings take center stage. The narrative explores themes of survival, morality, and the human condition when faced with danger in the vastness of space. The plot follows the character Henry, who initially finds himself in a perilous situation when his reckless companions abandon him in space. Rescued by Ranjit, an elderly ice-sweeper operator who has been maintaining a station in the Rings of Saturn, Henry learns about the complexities of their environment and the challenges of survival. The arrival of Joachim and Morna, representatives of the Society for the Preservation of the Rings of Saturn, introduces a strong conflict over the ethical implications of extracting resources from the rings. As tension escalates with the illicit arrival of gangsters Vicenzo and Aziz, the narrative culminates in a battle for survival and integrity where Henry must navigate loyalties, his past decisions, and ultimately seek redemption for his actions. The novel delves into the repercussions of greed and the importance of self-sacrifice amidst extraordinary circumstances.
The Space Between
"The Space Between" by Robert E. Gilbert is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story explores the dynamics of interpersonal relationships during a space voyage, juxtaposed against the backdrop of a futuristic and adventurous setting. The narrative centers around the protagonist, Jak SP34509260, as he navigates his duties aboard a space vessel while managing a complex relationship with his companion, Drusilla GW414249834, amidst unexpected encounters with space pirates. The plot unfolds as Jak and Drusilla are on a journey through the solar system in their spacecraft, affectionately dubbed "the Box." Their trip takes a dangerous turn when they encounter Captain Flim, a self-proclaimed pirate with an obsession for adventure. Tensions rise as Flim and his crew threaten Jak and Drusilla, revealing their individual desires and fears. Meanwhile, Jak struggles to protect Drusilla, who seems inexplicably drawn to Flim’s bravado. Ultimately, the story pits Jak’s resourcefulness against Flim’s chaotic ambitions, highlighting themes of bravery, love, and the quest for autonomy in a universe filled with uncertainty and danger. The narrative combines elements of humor and drama, portraying how the characters cope with their situations during the thrilling escapade in space.
A Thought For Tomorrow
"A Thought For Tomorrow" by Robert E. Gilbert is a science fiction short story published in the early 1950s. This narrative explores the boundaries of perception and reality, focusing on the protagonist, Orville Potts, who grapples with his mental state in a psychiatric hospital. The book delves into themes of time travel and the power of the mind, suggesting that the limitations of reality may be transcended by sheer thought. The story follows Orville Potts, who resides in a mental hospital and experiences vivid daydreams and time-traveling fantasies. He believes he can transport himself through time and space, attempting to engage with historical events and figures. Through a series of surreal episodes, Potts reveals his struggles with the pressures of his environment including abusive attendants and his own distorted perceptions. Ultimately, in a bid to escape the confines of his reality, Potts succeeds in transporting himself into the future on a spaceship, suggesting a profound yet whimsical reflection on the nature of existence and the capacity of the mind.
Thy Rocks and Rills
"Thy Rocks and Rills" by Robert E. Gilbert is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story is set in a dystopian future where an advanced society engages in brutal bullfighting, reflecting on themes of human-animal relationships and the consequences of violence in sport. The narrative unfolds through the experiences of M. Stonecypher, a farmer who is pitted against L. Dan, a cruel hobbyist in a ridiculous duel that serves as a critique of societal norms regarding masculinity and entertainment. The plot centers around Stonecypher's prized bull, Moe, who has been mutated by exposure to radioactivity and possesses extraordinary intelligence. As the narrative progresses, Stonecypher prepares for Moe's participation in a deadly bullfight on Dependence Day, where the hope is to show that the bull can defy the gruesome culture surrounding animal fights. The duel serves as a backdrop for exploring the philosophical quandaries of agency, morality, and the instinctual fight for survival, leading to a climactic showdown between humans and the expectations placed on the animals in their midst. Ultimately, it acts as a lens through which the reader confronts the implications of man’s dominion over nature.
Stopover Planet
"Stopover Planet" by Robert E. Gilbert is a science fiction short story written in the early 1950s. The narrative centers on a bizarre encounter where an alien being captures various Earth inhabitants, showcasing the strange and often dark interplay between their desires and the aliens' predatory nature. The story is crafted within a whimsical yet eerie setting that reflects the fusion of daily life with fantastical elements. In "Stopover Planet," the plot unfolds as various characters from Earth, including a patrolman, a baker, and a reverend, are drawn into a peculiar scheme orchestrated by aliens. The aliens seduce these individuals by exploiting their desires—whether for promotion, love, or familial security—before capturing them in a mysterious truck. As the aliens prepare to take their captives to another dimension, they reflect on the unique traits of humanity and their own mission to collect specimens for the Galactic Museum of Natural History. Through sharp humor and absurdity, the story critiques human nature and explores themes of selfishness and the struggle for connection.