Author
Tom Godwin
1915-1980
Tom Godwin (1915-1980) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Tom Godwin
Space Prison
"Space Prison" by Tom Godwin is a science fiction novel published in 1958. When aliens attack a ship bound for a distant colony, they divide the passengers into two groups. The "Rejects" are abandoned on Ragnarok, a brutal planet with crushing gravity, deadly creatures, and scarce resources. Stranded across generations, the survivors face extinction while nursing one burning purpose: revenge against their captors. This tale of human endurance follows their desperate struggle to overcome impossible odds and reclaim their destiny.
The Barbarians
"The Barbarians" by Tom Godwin is a science fiction short story originally published in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around the conflict between the highly advanced Tharnarian civilization and the Terrans, who are viewed as barbaric invaders. The story explores themes of cultural superiority, fear of the unknown, and the consequences of stagnation in a once-great civilization. In the story, two Terrans, Bob Randall and Virginia, find themselves on Tharnar after their exploratory mission leads them to a confrontation with the Tharnarians. Captured and sentenced to execution, they represent a youthful race brimming with vitality in stark contrast to the complacent Tharnarians, who have not known war for millennia. As Tal-Karanth, the Supreme Executive of Tharnar, grapples with the decision to execute them, he begins to recognize that the true threat is not the Terrans themselves, but rather the stagnation and decay inherent in his own civilization. Ultimately, Tal-Karanth's decision to spare the Terrans marks a pivotal moment for Tharnar, suggesting that new life and vigor may come from the very "barbarians" they feared. The narrative concludes with the Terrans embarking on their quest for knowledge, signifying hope and the possibility of revitalization for both races.
The Last Victory
"The Last Victory" by Tom Godwin is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. It explores themes of power, individuality, and the complex dynamics between authority and the human spirit within an oppressive societal structure known as Technogration. The story unfolds in a distant future where a group of colonists and Frontier Guards find themselves marooned on an unknown planet, encountering hostile creatures and the underlying threat of an alien parasitic species. The narrative follows Captain Thane, a member of the Frontier Guards, as he navigates the power struggle between himself and the ship’s captain, Curry. After a violent encounter with monstrous creatures, Thane discovers that a seemingly harmless dog is the only entity capable of detecting the true danger—parasites that can take control of human minds. As the battle for survival intensifies, Thane grapples with his ruthless pursuit of power, ultimately confronting the moral implications of his choices. The tale concludes with an emotional crescendo as Thane realizes the price of his ambition, leading to a poignant moment of redemption through small acts of kindness and the recognition of humanity amidst the harshness of Technogration.
Brain Teaser
"Brain Teaser" by Tom Godwin is a science fiction novella published in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around the principles of space travel, specifically focusing on a revolutionary concept of a space warp shuttle that allows for rapid interstellar travel. Through its narrative, the book explores themes of human ingenuity, the unknown mysteries of advanced technology, and the consequences of venturing into uncharted dimensions. In the story, Carl Engle, the protagonist, is piloting the "Argosy" on a critical test flight designed to retrieve a spaceship, the "Thunderbolt", from Sirius, amid the threat of alien aggressors known as the Slugs. As things take a disastrous turn, the ship enters the space warp and Engle must navigate the complexities of the new dimension while unraveling an inexplicable phenomenon that causes the ship to simultaneously occupy two distinct positions and travel in multiple directions at once. As he taps into the ship's computer for answers, Engle ultimately discovers that the ship's strange behavior is a result of its expansion within the warp. Faced with the challenge of returning to normal space and evading enemy forces, Engle devises a plan to utilize the shuttle's focal ball to position himself correctly relative to Sirius, highlighting both his resourcefulness and the vast unknowns of space travel. Overall, "Brain Teaser" presents a thought-provoking tale that challenges the boundaries of scientific understanding and exploration, inviting readers to ponder the intricate nature of space and time.
The Nothing Equation
"The Nothing Equation" by Tom Godwin is a science fiction novella written in the late 1950s. The story centers on a lone attendant, Green, who is stationed in a small observation bubble positioned ten thousand light-years beyond the galaxy’s outermost sun. The narrative explores themes of isolation, psychological terror, and the existential threat posed by the vast emptiness of space, which is portrayed as a malevolent force. In the plot, Green is tasked with observing data in this bubble after previous attendants have experienced terrifying episodes resulting in insanity or death. As he spends time alone in the bubble, he becomes increasingly aware of an intangible yet oppressive presence he refers to as "Nothing," which seems to haunt the space surrounding him. His fears escalate as he discovers structural weaknesses in the bubble that could lead to catastrophic failure. Struggling with his sanity, he isolates himself further, believing that hiding from this unseen threat is his only chance at survival. Ultimately, the story culminates in an eerie reflection on the nature of fear and the unknown, leaving the reader with questions about the reality of the threats lurking in the void of space.
—And Devious the Line of Duty
"—And Devious the Line of Duty" by Tom Godwin is a science fiction novel that likely reflects the mid-20th century sentiment, the era during which it was written. The story unfolds in a futuristic setting where interworld politics, military strategy, and personal dynamics intertwine, centering on the impending threat posed by the Verdam oligarchy to the Terran Republic. The narrative touches upon themes of duty, sacrifice, and complex personal relationships against a backdrop of high-stakes diplomacy. The plot follows Lieutenant Dale Hunter, who finds himself on Vesta to assist in crucial negotiations involving Princess Lyla and various key political figures, including the ambitious Verdam Special Envoy Sonig and the less-than-heroic Lord Narf. As the story progresses, Hunter uncovers layers of manipulation and deception, stemming from the seemingly hapless Strategic Service agent, George Rockford. Tensions escalate when attempts on their lives emerge, driven by Narf’s jealousy and Sonig's schemes. Amidst the chaos, Hunter's growing feelings for Lyla complicate his duty, culminating in a dramatic confrontation that reveals not only the corrupt ambitions of antagonistic forces but also the sacrifices necessary to protect one's home and ideals. Ultimately, the resolution showcases unexpected alliances and a twist in Hunter's understanding of duty and heroism.
The Helpful Hand of God
"The Helpful Hand of God" by Tom Godwin is a science fiction short story originally published in the December 1961 issue of Analog Science Fact & Fiction. The narrative unfolds in a distant future where the ethical dilemmas of colonization and power dynamics between different races are explored. The story delves into themes of resistance, moral choices, and the potential for compassion between oppressors and the oppressed, with a particular focus on the Church of the Golden Rule and their struggle against the Vogarian State. The plot centers around Commander Y'Nor of the Vogarian cruiser who, seeking resources from the peaceful inhabitants of a newly discovered planet known as Sanctuary, encounters Father Brenn, the leader of the Saints. Y'Nor's brutal demands for fuel production force Brenn into a corner, prompting him to comply out of fear for his people's lives. However, as the story progresses, Brenn's influence on his society leads to unexpected solidarity between the workers of Sanctuary and the Vogarian guards, unearthing emotions and connections that challenge the oppressive regime. Central to the narrative is the character Kane, who grapples with his own role within this power structure and ultimately chooses to side with the Saints, rejecting the oppressive commands of his commander in a bid for a more humane future. The story culminates in a defiance against tyranny, highlighting the complexities of human relationships amidst the backdrop of conflict.
Cry from a Far Planet
"Cry from a Far Planet" by Tom Godwin is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century. The story explores the challenges faced by an exploration crew attempting to communicate with an alien race on a distant planet, delving into themes of misunderstanding, trust, and the consequences of distrust between species. It encapsulates the complexities of first contact in a universe teeming with intelligent life. The narrative follows Paul Jameson, a lone survivor of an exploration mission after the tragic death of his twin brother, Johnny. Isolated on an alien world, Paul faces not only physical dangers but also the profound emotional turmoil stemming from his brother's loss. The primary conflict escalates when Throon, a native of the planet, becomes gravely ill due to radiation from Earth's technology. As Paul attempts to bridge the communication gap with the natives, he grapples with the implications of trust and betrayal after a telepathic alien, part of a race called the Varn, reveals itself. The Varn seek cooperation with humans to overcome the communication barrier that has led to misunderstandings and violence. Ultimately, Paul must make a pivotal choice: to embrace the potential for alliance with the Varn or to eliminate a possible threat to humanity. The tension between hope for mutual understanding and the instinct to protect his own race is at the heart of this thought-provoking exploration of contact with the unknown.