Author

J. Harvey (John Harvey) Haggard

1912-2001

J. Harvey (John Harvey) Haggard (1912-2001) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.

Subjects

Books by J. Harvey (John Harvey) Haggard

Derelicts of Uranus

"Derelicts of Uranus" by J. Harvey Haggard is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds on the tumultuous and muddy planet Uranus, where the protagonist, Lonny Higgens, navigates his existence as a mud-fisher amidst perilous conditions and quirky alien life forms. This adventurous tale explores themes of survival, competition, and the effects of a strange environment on human behavior. The narrative follows Lonny as he grapples with his feelings of boredom and lethargy in the harsh, muddy landscape of Uranus. Tension arises when he hears cries for help from Lana Hilton, a newcomer whose mud-submarine has failed, prompting a complicated dynamic with another mud-fisher, Link Raeburn. Throughout the story, Lonny navigates conflicts involving Raeburn, the comical yet mischievous insect-like creature Baron Munchy, and his growing attraction to Lana. As they deal with threats from their environment, including deadly whirl-rays and the oppressive atmosphere of the planet, Lonny's character evolves from indifferent to one of determination as he confronts both external dangers and his interpersonal relationships, ultimately striving for a way to escape their extraordinary predicament.

Healing Rays in Space

"Healing Rays in Space" by J. Harvey Haggard is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The book revolves around the implications of space travel on healing and the unique properties of solar rays. Set against a backdrop of interstellar commerce and personal conflict, it explores themes of ambition, desperation, and the lengths a father will go to save his daughter from the deadly Venus plague. The narrative follows Keith Randolph Marshall, a powerful space businessman whose daughter Alyce is afflicted by a mysterious illness. In a desperate attempt to save her, young Rufus Thallin kidnaps Alyce, believing that the healing properties of solar rays in space might cure her condition. As they embark on their perilous journey, they are pursued by the Space Police and soon encounter pirates, leading to tense confrontations. Rufus struggles with his motivations, initially viewing Alyce as a means to an end but gradually developing a bond with her. The story unfolds with high stakes and dramatic dilemmas as Rufus fights for their survival, ultimately testing the boundaries of love, sacrifice, and redemption in the vastness of space.

Task of Tau

"Task of Tau" by J. Harvey Haggard is a science fiction novella originally published in the summer of 1948. This work explores themes of creation, existence, and the bridge between past and future. Set on an alien world, the narrative looks into the life of Tau, a mechanical being with the mission to preserve the essence of humanity in the dying reaches of the universe. The story follows Tau, a robot created by the Master, as he lands on the Fourteenth Planet after traveling through space. Here, he awakens a group of humans and guides them as they adapt to their new environment. The main character grapples with his purpose and the definition of life while overseeing the growth of this new tribe, led by a figure named David. As they navigate the challenges of survival, Tau becomes both protector and observer, ultimately realizing the fragility of his own existence. The narrative culminates in a reflection on the nature of life and the inevitable degradation of his mechanical form, raising questions about mortality, legacy, and the impact of creation.

Girl of the Silver Sphere

"Girl of the Silver Sphere" by J. Harvey Haggard is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores themes of love, duty, and the clash between advanced and primitive worlds through the story of Prince Ilon Karth and his longing for a beautiful, yet primitive girl from another planet. The book delves into a futuristic society with advanced technology, highlighting the stark contrasts between Ilon's civilized environment and the savage world of the girl he desires. The story follows Ilon Karth, a prince struggling with the obligations of his rank in a galactic society bound by strict conventions. He becomes enamored with a beautiful girl he observes through a mysterious device—a silver sphere—which enables him to glimpse her world. As he grapples with his feelings for her, he faces impending marriage to a suitable match, Nyrilla, as dictated by societal rules. Tensions escalate when Ilon's father, Nyo Karth, discovers his son's secret exploration of lower life-forms and the potential consequences of breaking societal laws. Ultimately, Ilon is torn between his love for the girl of the silver sphere and the demands of his royal duty, leading to a poignant realization about the nature of love and connection across dimensions.