Author
Jim Harmon
1933-2010
Jim Harmon (1933-2010) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Jim Harmon
The Expendables
"The Expendables" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction story written in the early 1960s. This narrative revolves around a peculiar invention designed for waste disposal, but the premise is subverted when the implications of its use extend into the criminal realm. The plot delves into the moral and ethical dilemmas that arise from the ability to make objects, including bodies, cease to exist, highlighting the consequences of tampering with the laws of physics and reality. The story follows Professor Venetti, who becomes embroiled in a shady deal with mobster Tony Carmen. As Venetti struggles with his conscience over the practical applications of his invention, which is intended to neutralize radioactive waste, Carmen insists on using it for disposing of bodies. When it becomes clear that the device can eliminate matter entirely, the plot thickens as they grapple with the unforeseen repercussions of wielding such power. Eventually, both characters face the chaos unleashed by their tampering with the fabric of existence, leading to tensions around the boundaries of legality and morality in their respective worlds. Venetti's invention poses both a solution and a threat, raising questions about human responsibility when dealing with technology that defies natural laws.
Always a Qurono
"Always a Qurono" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction tale originally published in the early 1960s, specifically within the pages of Galaxy Magazine. The story follows Captain T. P. Barnhart, who finds himself marooned on a strange planet inhabited by android-like beings known as the Qurono. The narrative delves into themes of authority, routine, and existential reflection against a backdrop of interstellar adventure. The plot centers on Barnhart's experiences after being left behind by his mutinous crew. As he strives to adapt to his peculiar circumstances, he observes the Qurono, who adhere to a strict daily routine and perform a ritual called geoplancting. With time, Barnhart's attempts to assert dominance over the Qurono lead to unintended consequences, culminating in a reversal of roles where he ultimately becomes a subject of their rituals. The story concludes with Barnhart being rescued by his crew, but he remains steeped in the routines instilled by the Qurono, indicating the lasting impact of his experiences on the alien planet. Through this narrative, Harmon explores the complexities of power dynamics and the influence of surroundings on individual behavior.
The Upside-Down Captain
"The Upside-Down Captain" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction story that originally appeared in the magazine "Worlds of If Science Fiction" in the early 1960s. It centers on a newly assigned crew member, Ben Starbuck, aboard the spaceship "Gorgon". The narrative delves into themes of exploration, the unknown, and the often bizarre dynamics of space travel, illustrating the challenges faced by characters in a high-stakes environment. The story follows Starbuck, who is not a seasoned spaceman but an ethnologist seeking to gather material for his thesis. As he acclimatizes to life on the "Gorgon", he quickly observes the strange interactions between the crew and their eccentric captain, Birdsel, who becomes increasingly erratic under the influence of a cybernetic brain designed to seek out new worlds. The tension escalates when Starbuck discovers that the captain's mental state is deteriorating due to the brain's obsession with exploration and deviation from norms. Ultimately, the crew must confront the captain to regain control of the ship and navigate their path back to Earth. The narrative combines humor and suspense, engaging readers with its unique characters and imaginative plot twists.
Confidence Game
"Confidence Game" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century, specifically during the late 1950s. This narrative explores themes of addiction, identity, and the implications of time travel through the lens of its characters' struggles. The story blends elements of social commentary with speculative fiction, revealing the complex relationships between individuals and their desires. In "Confidence Game," the protagonist, often referred to as Kevin, navigates a gritty world alongside his elderly father, known as Doc, who possesses the potential for time travel. As they dwell in the underbelly of society, Kevin battles his deep-rooted addiction to caffeine, a reflection of his desperation and cravings for a life beyond his current circumstances. When Doc's knowledge leads to a series of mysterious disappearances linked to powerful books that don't exist, Kevin grapples with his identity and the legacy of his father. Ultimately, he faces a critical choice between safeguarding a dangerous technology that could angle humanity towards a state of pure reason or destroying it to protect the essence of what it means to be human. The narrative combines a rich exploration of the human psyche with the consequences of ambition, addiction, and the complexities of father-son relationships.
Mindsnake
"Mindsnake" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story explores themes of identity, companionship, and the nature of humanity within a futuristic setting where the concept of teleportation has evolved into a complex system involving human emotions and experiences. The narrative follows Hammen, a Witch who relies on his canine Familiar, Lad, as he navigates the challenges posed by an enigmatic entity known as the Mindsnake, a being that threatens the very essence of personal identity during transit across space. The plot unfolds as Hammen finds himself at odds with Gordus, a coordinator who questions the legitimacy of the Witch-Familiar bond. When ordered to take a human Companion for a critical mission, Hammen's disdain for people deepens, leading him into a power struggle that reveals the sinister nature of the Mindsnake. As the story progresses, Hammen encounters Isodel, a brilliant but troubled woman whose mind becomes the target of Gordus's ambition. In a climactic revelation, Hammen confronts both the Mindsnake and Gordus, leading to a collective effort that results in the destruction of the Mindsnake but also raises questions about survival and individuality. Ultimately, Hammen must choose between his love for Isodel and his loyalty to Lad, illustrating the tension between personal bonds and the demands of one’s identity.
Baker's Dozens
"Baker's Dozens" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction short story published in the late 1950s. The narrative centers around a character named Baker, often characterized as a renegade and self-styled 'Robin Hood' of space, whose actions against extraterrestrial exploitation spark a complex tale involving multiple identities and moral dilemmas. The story delves into themes of identity, justice, and the consequences of one's actions in a universe filled with diverse alien cultures. In the story, Baker navigates various worlds and encounters challenges that test his beliefs and motives. Initially depicted as a pirate seeking to liberate alien minds from Earth’s propaganda, he becomes embroiled in a web of intrigue involving duplicity and survival. Baker's encounters lead to his accidental duplication through a malfunctioning teleportation device, creating multiple versions of himself in the process. This culminates in a surreal confrontation regarding the nature of identity, as the original Baker and his copies grapple with their existence and purpose. The story concludes with the realization that Baker has effectively 'died' in numerous ways across the galaxies, leaving behind disparate versions of himself continuing his mission of aiding the oppressed.
How to Make Friends
"How to Make Friends" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction short story written in the early 1960s. The narrative centers on William Manet, an overseer on Mars who grapples with profound loneliness in his isolated job at an Atmosphere Seeder Station. The story explores themes of companionship, desire, and the underlying absurdity of human connections in the face of existential solitude. As the plot unfolds, Manet's solitude drives him into a psychological struggle, and he eventually encounters a character named Trader Tom who offers him a "Socialization Kit" designed to create friends. Inside the kit, Manet finds various components and a manual titled "The Making of Friends and Others." In his humorous yet tragic attempts to create meaningful relationships, he constructs Ronald, a mundane companion, and Veronica, a less-than-astute female figure. However, when he tries to build Victor, who becomes his adversary, the story culminates in a poignant realization about companionship and the nature of friendship. Ultimately, Manet finds that challenges and conflicts can be more engaging than the shallow, vacuous connections he initially sought.
The Last Trespasser
"The Last Trespasser" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction novel written in the late 20th century. Set in a dystopian future where humanity coexists with an enigmatic force known as "Riders," the story explores themes of identity, sanity, and societal norms. The narrative follows the protagonist, Michael Malloy, as he navigates a world transformed by these symbiotic entities that enhance human capabilities while rendering certain individuals, like Malloy, devoid of their influence. The plot revolves around Michael Malloy, who has spent three and a half years in a mental institution due to his refusal to accept the Riders that empower most of humanity. Following his release, Malloy grapples with the reality of a society vastly different from the one he once knew—where superhuman abilities are the norm and his lack of a Rider makes him feel outcast and helpless. As he seeks a place within this new world, he is drawn into a subplot involving a group called the Jockeys, who pretend to be Riderless while exploiting their powers. Ultimately, this tale culminates in revelations about Malloy's true nature, hinting that he embodies a unique potential as a superman due to his duality. The story artfully critiques conformity and the quest for individuality amid pervasive societal control.
The Last Place on Earth
"The Last Place on Earth" by Jim Harmon is a psychological science fiction novel likely written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around a protagonist's internal struggle as he navigates themes of identity, control, and the supernatural amid a backdrop of futuristic elements such as rocket ships and government projects. The narrative delves into the human psyche and addresses concepts of alien influence in a small-town setting. The plot follows Sam Collins, a man haunted by his troubled past and a strange encounter with the local undertaker, Doc Candle, who claims to be an alien with a sinister mission. As Collins grapples with his own dark impulses, he inadvertently becomes embroiled in a series of events that lead to violence and confusion, including a mistaken assault on a woman named Nancy Comstock. With the looming threat of the government and Candle's manipulative control, Collins races against time to prove his own innocence while dealing with the ghosts of his past. Ultimately, the story blurs the lines between sanity and madness, freedom and control, culminating in a surreal encounter that tests the limits of Collins' identity and will to live.
Blueblood
"Blueblood" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction novella published in the early 1960s. The story takes place on a distant planet inhabited by two distinct humanoid races: the lighter-skinned Azures and the darker-skinned Indigos. It explores themes of racial superiority and inferiority through the perspective of a space pilot who interacts with these alien species and witnesses their societal dynamics. The narrative follows a space pilot, Johnny, along with his colleagues, Dr. Mike Ellik and Dr. Lee Chon, as they land on a peculiar planet populated by the two differing alien races. The Azures appear to hold power and social status, while the Indigos are depicted as their subservient class, leading Johnny and Ellik to speculate on the reasons for this division. As Ellik conducts a transformative surgery on an Indigo named Mhaw, turning him into an Azure, they aim to prove that the distinctions between the races stem from a medical condition rather than inherent inferiority. However, their plans go awry when Mhaw, now Aedo, rejects their help, showcasing the complexities of identity and societal roles. Ultimately, the story culminates in a bitter reflection on the nature of prejudice and the consequences of their endeavors, leaving the characters trapped in the cycle they sought to break.
Break a Leg
"Break a Leg" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction story written in the late 1950s. The book explores the life of Charlie Baxter, an Accident Prone individual aboard a spaceship, as he navigates the challenges of his unique condition in an alien setting. The narrative delves into themes of self-acceptance, the nature of accidents, and the complex dynamics of fear and confidence in the face of adversity. In the plot, Captain Jackson and his crew undertake a re-survey of the planet Moran III with the assistance of the Accident Prone, Charlie Baxter. Baxter’s journey proves tumultuous as he struggles with the burden of his reputation while trying to prove his worth within the crew. After a series of misadventures that put him in significant danger among the planet’s natives, it becomes clear that Baxter must confront his insecurities to survive. As he faces multiple crises, including a confrontation with the planet’s inhabitants and a near-fatal encounter with a geyser, he ultimately comes to terms with his identity as an Accident Prone. The story concludes with the ambiguous suggestion that while Baxter may have learned to adapt to his condition, his acceptance may also lead to unforeseen consequences, leaving readers to ponder the complexities of relying on fate.
The Air of Castor Oil
"The Air of Castor Oil" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction novella published in the early 1960s. The narrative is centered around a main character who finds himself trapped in a conflict between the past and the present, highlighting themes of nostalgia and existential crisis. Through the protagonist's journey, the novella delves into the psychological effects of time travel and memory, blurring the line between reality and imagination. In the story, Hilliard Turner becomes increasingly obsessed with the world of World War I aviation, spending his time in a small bookstore that specializes in vintage air-war magazines. As Turner immerses himself in nostalgia, he begins to lose touch with reality, leading to dangerous encounters with authorities who misunderstand his intentions. This gripping tale explores Turner's struggle against a society that tries to imprison him in the present, while he longs for the experiences and memories of a past he may have never truly lived. Ultimately, as he confronts a psychiatrist who reveals the shocking truth about his condition, Turner’s journey becomes a reflection on identity and the influence of nostalgia on human experience.
The Place Where Chicago Was
"The Place Where Chicago Was" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story is set in a dystopian future where war is eliminated through a technology that induces pacifism, resulting in societal changes that lead to hardships and odd societal structures. The narrative focuses on themes of survival, the human condition, and the moral implications of living in a world stripped of traditional warfare yet filled with new forms of conflict and aggression. The protagonist, Abe Danniels, embarks on a journey to a desolate part of the former United States, where Chicago used to be, amidst a backdrop of enforced pacifism and societal decay. He meets Julie, a woman who challenges his worldview, and they become involved with a group known as the Wolf Pack, who are resistant to the pacifism imposed by technology. As they navigate through their bleak reality, they discuss philosophical and ethical dilemmas regarding life, death, and the nature of violence. Danniels also struggles with his identity as a "Jonah," or war outcast, seeking a way to solve a food crisis resulting from earlier wars and societal changes. The novel combines elements of adventure, philosophy, and deep introspection, leading to an ambitious climax where the characters confront their beliefs about violence, survival, and humanity's future.
The Big Headache
"The Big Headache" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction novella written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around themes of medical ethics, the consequences of scientific experimentation, and human cognition. It focuses on the potential for a new treatment aimed at curing headaches, which leads to unforeseen and dramatic results concerning intelligence and mental capacity. In "The Big Headache," biologists Dr. Ferris and Dr. Mitchell seek to test their experimental virus that purports to eliminate headaches by affecting the pituitary gland. They persuade the renowned mathematician, Dr. Elliot Macklin, who suffers from severe migraines, to participate in their trial. Initially successful in alleviating his pain, the procedure drastically reduces Macklin's intelligence, transforming him into a simple-minded man who rejects returning to his previous self. This state of bliss raised ethical dilemmas regarding autonomy, mental capacity, and whether it is better to live in ignorance without suffering or to be burdened by the pressures of a complex mind. The story culminates in Dr. Ferris envisioning a future where they can profit from this discovery, while the moral implications of their actions hang over them, illustrating the balance between scientific ambition and ethical responsibility.
February Strawberries
"February Strawberries" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story grapples with themes of death, resurrection, and the consequences of tampering with life, as it follows the protagonist, Frank Linton, in his quest to bring back his deceased wife, Greta. The narrative blends elements of speculative fiction with psychological exploration, examining the nature of reality and identity in the face of advanced, albeit morally ambiguous, technology. The plot centers on Frank Linton, who, after emerging from a mental institution, becomes obsessed with the idea of resurrecting his wife, Greta, who died several months prior. Throughout his journey, Frank encounters a range of characters, including a dubious doctor who claims to have the means to bring the dead back to life. Ultimately, when he succeeds in resurrecting Greta, he discovers that she is altered and not quite the woman he remembered. As the narrative unfolds, Frank grapples with the implications of his actions, confronting the horrific reality of what resurrection entails and questioning the very fabric of his memories and relationships. The story presents a cautionary tale about the desires to conquer death and the unpredictable nature of the consequences that arise from such endeavors.
Name Your Symptom
"Name Your Symptom" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction narrative crafted in the mid-20th century. The story follows psychiatrist Henry Infield as he grapples with the implications of technological "Cures" that suppress mental illnesses, portraying a society where individuals rely on mechanical aids to manage their psychological issues. The exploration of mental health and the consequences of relying on artificial solutions rather than understanding the underlying problems form the core of the book's premise. In the narrative, Infield, disillusioned with the efficacy of the Cures he dispenses, decides to experience life without any such mechanical aids. This leads him to confront the fabricated realities created by these Cures and the societal structure that upholds them. Through encounters with various characters like Clyde Morgan, a fellow psychiatrist, and George Price, a fervent advocate for enforcing these Cures, Infield's journey evolves into a fight for individuality and authentic sanity. Ultimately, his courageous defiance against these societal norms culminates in a tragic confrontation with lightning, symbolizing the dire consequences of rejecting one's authenticity in favor of imposed constructs. The story serves as both a cautionary tale and a reflection on the nature of mental health, freedom, and the societal pressures that influence individual identity.
Charity Case
"Charity Case" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction short story first published in the late 1950s. The narrative focuses on the life of William Hagle, who has faced continuous turmoil, being framed for crimes he did not commit and struggling with his perceived mental health issues. Central to the story is the exploration of themes such as guilt, redemption, and the influence of unseen forces, particularly the Hexers who haunt Hagle due to a past accident involving the death of a man. The story unfolds through Hagle’s internal monologue as he recounts his troubled upbringing, marked by neglect and allegations of wrongdoing. After a series of misfortunes and encounters, including an attempted theft at a mission, he learns about a time machine and the existence of extraterrestrial beings (the Hexers) whose vengeance has shaped his life based on a past accidental killing of a man named Harold R. Thompkins. Hagle's journey becomes a mix of supernatural influences and tangible consequences, revealing his desperation to relieve himself of the burdens of guilt and the quest for financial security to escape his current life. Ultimately, Hagle's realization about the nature of his unending persecution and his health leads to the shocking conclusion that his supposed 'disease' is intricately tied to a life lived under constant scrutiny and manipulation, leaving him to confront whether he will ever truly escape his fate.
The Spicy Sound of Success
"The Spicy Sound of Success" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction short story that appeared in Galaxy Magazine in the late 1950s. The narrative follows Captain Gavin and his crew as they navigate the challenges of space exploration, particularly the phenomenon of transphasia, which disrupts sensory perceptions and challenges their understanding of reality. The story explores themes of leadership, trust, and the interplay between human experience and alien encounters. In the story, Captain Gavin’s authority is put to the test as he grapples with the mysteries of an unfamiliar planet and the bizarre effects of transphasia that distort his and his crew’s sensory perceptions. As tensions rise between the captain and crew member Quade, who is more experienced in space travel, Gavin realizes that traditional ways of thinking may not apply in every circumstance. A critical mission leads to an unintended separation when Quade ventures out alone, resulting in potential peril. Through a blend of sci-fi elements and character development, the story examines the importance of adaptability and humility in the face of the unknown, ultimately leading to a resolution that emphasizes the need for understanding across different forms of life.
Dangerous Quarry
"Dangerous Quarry" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction novel likely written in the early 1960s. The story follows an insurance adjuster named Madison, who is sent to investigate a concerning spike in accident claims from a peculiar village called Granite City. The narrative delves into themes of automation, community conspiracy, and the mysterious effects of the local granite on its inhabitants. As Madison embarks on his investigation, he discovers that the residents of Granite City may be partaking in an elaborate scheme to defraud his insurance company. However, the truth behind the town's peculiar accident rate reveals something more sinister: the granite itself is linked to a loss of psionic abilities among the townsfolk, rendering them incapable of basic foresight and awareness. With the help of a captive professor who has been studying these anomalies, Madison navigates a dangerous confrontation with the townspeople, ultimately leading to revelations that show the granite's impact extends far beyond individual claims, threatening broader societal implications. The story concludes with hints of a larger crisis as the implications of their psionic sterilization unfold.
No Substitutions
"No Substitutions" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction short story that was published in Galaxy Magazine in the late 1950s. The narrative explores a futuristic penal system where criminals are placed into an artificial Dreamland, allowing them to live out fantasies instead of serving time in a traditional prison. The story offers a commentary on the nature of reality, sanity, and human morality within a highly controlled environment. The plot centers around Warden Walker, who oversees the Dreamland facility, as he grapples with ethical dilemmas related to the treatment of inmates. The story intensifies when Councilman Coleman, a power figure, questions Walker's perception of reality, suggesting that Walker himself might be living in a Dream. This leads to a series of interactions with various inmates who wish to return to Dreamland, each illustrating different perspectives on confinement and escapism. As Walker navigates the complexities of his role and the nature of his own reality, he must confront his beliefs about freedom, identity, and the very essence of existence. Ultimately, the story raises profound questions about the boundaries of human experience and the moral implications of a life divorced from authentic reality.
The Planet with No Nightmare
"The Planet with No Nightmare" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s, at a time when space exploration was gaining significant public interest. The narrative focuses on an exploration team that arrives on a mysterious planet, Yancy-6, where they encounter bizarre life forms and grapple with the implications of their existence, particularly in relation to mortality and the nature of life itself. The themes of isolation, suspicion, and existential inquiry weave through the story as the crew members confront the planet's strange phenomena. In "The Planet with No Nightmare," the story follows a surveyor named Ekstrohm and his two companions, Ryan and Nogol, as they land on the unfamiliar planet Yancy-6. Upon arrival, they initially encounter dead animals, which mysteriously disappear, leading to rising tensions within the crew as suspicions about Ekstrohm's sanity surface. The narrative intensifies as Ekstrohm discovers that the creatures on the planet can seemingly feign death as a defense mechanism. As the exploration team investigates, they learn about the planet's odd ecological dynamics, including a connection to enigmatic flying whales. Ultimately, the exploration leads to revelations about the possibility of immortality among the planet's residents and the implications for human colonization, culminating in Ekstrohm's decision to leave his companions behind and report back to civilization, emphasizing the loneliness of his condition.
Measure for a Loner
"Measure for a Loner" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction novella written during the mid-20th century. The narrative explores the psychological implications of loneliness in the context of space travel, particularly the necessity for a pilot who can withstand isolation in deep space. The story examines how contemporary society influences perceptions of loneliness and how finding a suitable astronaut amidst a well-conditioned populace proves to be a significant challenge. The plot centers around Dr. Thorn, a historical psychologist who is tasked with identifying a suitable candidate for piloting a groundbreaking interstellar spaceship, the "Evening Star." The government seeks a man who embodies true loneliness, one who can handle the solitude of space travel for extended periods. Thorn discovers two candidates: Gordon Meyverik, who has deliberately isolated himself on Seal Island to prepare for the mission, and Stan Johnson, who enjoys solitude for its own sake. As Thorn assesses their suitability, he grapples with the moral complexities of his task, culminating in a harrowing realization that both candidates may be unable to return from their mission due to governmental manipulation. Ultimately, the novella poses profound questions about loneliness and the human condition in an era where emotional suppression may come at a great cost.