Author
Fritz Leiber
1910-1992
Fritz Leiber (1910-1992) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Fritz Leiber
A Pail of Air
"A Pail of Air" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction short story published in 1951. Earth has been torn from the Sun by a dark star, freezing the atmosphere solid. A ten-year-old boy narrates his family's survival in a makeshift shelter, where they gather pails of frozen oxygen to breathe. They maintain a small fire for warmth in a world plunged into absolute darkness and cold, waiting alone on a dead planet.
Conjure wife
"Conjure Wife" by Fritz Leiber is a supernatural horror novel published in 1943. When sociology professor Norman Saylor discovers his wife Tansy practices witchcraft, he dismisses it as superstition and convinces her to destroy her protective charms. His luck immediately turns catastrophic. Norman must now confront an unsettling reality: witchcraft flourishes as an open secret among women, and by interfering, he has left them both defenseless against the spells of others. A classic of modern horror fiction that layers the mundane with the uncanny.
The Green Millennium
"The Green Millennium" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story centers on Phil Gish, a disillusioned and timid man living in a futuristic society where robots threaten his livelihood and a sense of hopelessness pervades daily life. His mundane existence takes a turn when a peculiar green cat named Lucky mysteriously appears, bringing with it an unexpected spark of joy and adventure, instantly altering Phil's perception of the world around him. The opening of the novel introduces Phil Gish as he navigates through a bleak and oppressive urban landscape, struggling with his feelings of purposelessness and fear of automation. One morning, he wakes up feeling unexpectedly optimistic, which is compounded by the arrival of the green cat that grants him comfort and companionship. As Phil adjusts to his newfound enthusiasm for life, he becomes embroiled in an odd world populated by unusual characters, navigating a series of peculiar encounters that lead him to question the reality of Lucky's existence and the strange society he inhabits. Phil's journey into joy and confusion sets the stage for the adventure and surreal experiences that will follow as he explores what it means to really live.
The Big Engine
"The Big Engine" by Fritz Leiber is a short story written in the early 1960s, showcasing philosophical themes wrapped in a narrative format. This work can be classified as speculative fiction, as it explores complex ideas regarding the nature of existence and human consciousness. The likely topic of the book revolves around the concept of human beings as machines, devoid of genuine emotions or thoughts, and how society is structured around this mechanical view of life. In the story, a character known as the Professor reflects on the nature of humanity and existence, questioning why life seems mechanical and devoid of true connection. Drawing on various philosophical influences, he concludes that people are merely machines programmed to perform specific roles without authentic interaction or emotion. The narrative presents a bleak view of the world, depicted as a grand, indifferent engine where individuals are isolated from each other, living in a state of ignorance and disconnection. The Professor perceives a symphony of mechanical sounds that underscore this theme, ultimately suggesting that real engagement between people is scarce, and most exist as puppets in a complex machine, subtly critiquing the state of human existence in modern society.
The 64-Square Madhouse
"The 64-Square Madhouse" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction novella written in the early 1960s. The story delves into the world of competitive chess, particularly focusing on an international tournament featuring an advanced chess-playing machine. The narrative explores themes of human intellect versus artificial intelligence, illustrating the complexities and psychological nuances of chess in a high-stakes environment. The plot centers on Sandra Lea Grayling, a journalist covering the tournament, who interacts with various chess grandmasters and witnesses the performance of the machine designed to compete against human players. Throughout the story, Sandra learns about the intricacies of chess, the personalities of the competitors, and the pressures they face. The tension escalates as the machine plays against renowned masters like Igor Jandorf and Mikhail Votbinnik, revealing both its strengths and limitations. Amidst the competition, characters engage in exuberant dialogue about the nature of chess, the advancements in technology, and the philosophical implications of a machine capable of strategic thought, leading to a climax that questions the future of human versus machine in the realm of intellect and competition.
The Night of the Long Knives
"The Night of the Long Knives" by Fritz Leiber is a novel written in the late 20th century. The story unfolds in a post-apocalyptic America known as the Deathlands, an unforgiving landscape filled with radiation and danger. The main character navigates this desolate world, encountering a mysterious girl with whom he shares a fraught tension marked by their primal urges — one toward violence and the other toward intimacy. The opening of the book introduces us to a tense encounter between the protagonist, a weary scavenger, and a girl he spots in the vast, hazardous terrain. Both are armed and aware of the danger surrounding them, their paths intertwining in a complex dance of survival, fear, and attraction. As they cautiously approach one another, the narrative delves into their emotions — the conflicting desires to kill and to connect — encapsulating life in the Deathlands where the urge to murder is portrayed as a survival instinct. This initial encounter hints at both the treachery and the potential for connection in a world ravaged by chaos, setting the tone for the unfolding tale.
The Moon is Green
"The Moon is Green" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction short story first published in 1952. In a post-nuclear world, Effie lives trapped in a lead-shielded house with her controlling husband Hank, isolated from the radioactive wasteland outside. When a mysterious stranger appears at her window claiming survival is possible beyond their sealed home, Effie must confront the truth about her pregnancy, her marriage, and whether the poisoned world outside offers freedom or death.
Nice Girl with 5 Husbands
"Nice Girl with 5 Husbands" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction novella originally published in 1951. The story investigates themes of love, companionship, and alternative family structures within a speculative framework. Set in a futuristic landscape marked by both emotional and technological advancements, the narrative probes the protagonist's complex interactions with a group of unconventional characters. The plot revolves around Tom Dorset, an artist grappling with his creative struggles amidst a fellowship retreat in the desert. His life takes a strange turn when he encounters Lois Wolver, a captivating girl who claims to have five husbands, leading him into a peculiar community that challenges his preconceived notions of relationships. As Tom learns more about the Wolvers and their unique lifestyle—comprised of love-sharing and an experimental mode of living—he becomes increasingly fascinated yet bewildered by their world. The narrative blends elements of fantasy and introspection, culminating in Tom's realization of whether he can reconcile his traditional views of love with the unconventional dynamics of this intriguing group.
Appointment In Tomorrow
"Appointment in Tomorrow" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction short story originally published in the early 1950s. The narrative explores complex themes surrounding morality, the role of intellect in society, and the implications of advanced technology in a post-apocalyptic world. Set against the backdrop of a war-torn America, it delves into the dynamics between various factions of scientists and thinkers after World War III, reflecting on the nature of human ambition and the moral ambiguities of using intellect for power. The story revolves around Jorj Helmuth, a member of the Thinkers' Foundation, and his interactions with various characters, including politicians and rival scientists. As the plot unfolds, Helmuth's ambition and the machinations of the Thinkers are challenged by Willard Farquar, a physicist disillusioned by the manipulation and deceit within the elite circles. Tensions rise as Farquar aims to expose the charlatanry of the Thinkers, who have built a superintelligence named Maizie to alter the course of humanity. Themes of trust, betrayal, and the quest for knowledge intertwine as characters navigate their personal ambitions amidst a society desperate for salvation, culminating in a struggle that questions the very values that govern their lives.
Bullet with His Name
"Bullet with His Name" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction novella written in the late 1950s. This thought-provoking work explores the intricacies of human choices and the consequences of one's actions, set against a backdrop of surreal experiences and inexplicable gifts bestowed upon its protagonist, Ernie Meeker. The narrative addresses the struggles of an ordinary man who unexpectedly receives extraordinary capabilities, compelling readers to ponder the nature of potential and responsibility. The story follows Ernie Meeker, an average man whose life takes a bizarre turn when he gains a series of extraordinary gifts from unknown cosmic beings. Among these gifts are an everlasting razor blade, the ability to read at a glance, and an uncanny insight into human behavior. However, as he grapples with these newfound powers, Ernie finds himself overwhelmed and conflicted, leading him to reject many of the gifts and ultimately resulting in unforeseen consequences. The climax unveils a tragic end as Ernie's choices culminate in his demise, serving as a poignant reflection on the weight of one's decisions and the potential dark paths of self-denial. Throughout, Leiber crafts a tale that intertwines personal growth with the exploration of higher powers, leaving readers to question what it truly means to embrace one's gifts.
Coming Attraction
"Coming Attraction" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. Set in a dystopian future where societal norms have skewed dramatically due to the aftermath of World War III, the story explores themes of gender dynamics, identity, and the impacts of war on human relationships. The narrative delves into a world where women often wear masks as a form of fashion driven by fame, safety, and societal pressure, while men grapple with their roles in a shifting social landscape. The plot revolves around Wysten Turner, an Englishman in New York who saves a masked woman from a reckless car, leading him into a complex web of danger and intrigue. He becomes entangled with the frightened woman, who is surrounded by ruthless individuals involved in underground wrestling. As the story unfolds, Wysten learns of her fears concerning violent gangs and the wrestlers who degrade and prey upon women. The tension escalates when Wysten confronts these threats, raising questions about courage, vulnerability, and the perilous dance of attraction in a world where identities can be as deceptive as the masks people wear. Ultimately, Leiber crafts a thought-provoking tale that examines the darker elements of desire and societal pressures in a tumultuous setting.
Friends and Enemies
"Friends and Enemies" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century, specifically around the 1950s. The story explores the conflict between artistic and scientific perspectives in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by war and dominated by oppressive figures. The narrative delves into themes of creativity, intellect, and the societal implications of technology. The plot follows two professors, Madson, a poet and self-proclaimed enemy of science, and Ellenby, a physicist, who are expelled from their safe haven in Ozona College for their intellectual pursuits and differing philosophies. They embark on a journey to the city of New Angeles, encountering various challenges along the way, including hostile forces and toxic environments. Their travels lead them to a fateful earthquake that recontextualizes their conflict, showcasing the destructive capabilities of nature versus the consequences of human technological advancements. Ultimately, the story raises questions about humanity, creativity, and the role of science, leaving readers to ponder the balance between art and intellect in a chaotic world.
A Bad Day for Sales
"A Bad Day for Sales" by Fritz Leiber is a short story written in the early 1950s, specifically during the mid-20th century. It falls into the genre of science fiction, exploring themes of technology and human interaction in a futuristic context. The narrative revolves around an advanced sales robot, Robie, and the impact he has on a crowded Times Square setting amidst significant shifts. The story centers on Robie, a mobile sales robot designed to sell various products while engaging with potential customers. As Robie interacts with a diverse crowd, he tries to sell items like candy and an unusual drink called Poppy Pop. However, the atmosphere quickly shifts as a catastrophic event occurs, leading to chaos and destruction in the once-bustling location. Amidst the turmoil, Robie's programmed responses and interactions reveal a stark contrast between mechanical efficiency and the emotional human experience of loss and fear, especially when a young girl searches for her mother after the blast. The story ultimately reflects on the nature of technology in a world where human frailty is exposed, leaving readers to contemplate the implications of automation and its emotional disconnect from human experiences.
The Big Time
"The Big Time" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction novel published in 1958. Two mysterious factions wage an epic temporal conflict across all of history, recruiting soldiers from different eras and worlds to fight in the Change War. Inside a rest station outside normal spacetime, entertainers and wounded fighters gather between battles. When a critical device vanishes and an atomic bomb is armed, the staff and soldiers must confront questions of loyalty, survival, and whether their cosmic war serves any meaningful purpose.
Martians, keep out!
"Martians, Keep Out!" by Fritz Leiber is a powerful novelette written during the mid-20th century. This science fiction work explores themes of discrimination and the struggle for rights, particularly focusing on the relationship between humans and Martians in a dystopian future where hatred towards Martians is stoked for nefarious purposes. The story centers around the character Jonas Scatterday, who aims to aid the oppressed Martians amidst a climate of violence and bigotry. In the narrative, Scatterday wrestles with societal prejudices while striving to report the truth about Martians through his news agency. Amid his attempts to uplift Martian voices, he faces fierce opposition from the authorities and bigots who wish to maintain the status quo of exploitation and hatred. The story unfolds with Scatterday's growth as a character, as he navigates dangerous encounters, rallies supporters, and ultimately inspires a strike among Martian workers, demonstrating the potential for solidarity and change against deep-rooted injustices. Through a mix of suspense and compelling character development, Leiber crafts a thought-provoking tale that challenges readers' perceptions of societal structures and the nature of humanity.
The Snowbank Orbit
"The Snowbank Orbit" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction short story published in the early 1960s. The narrative revolves around a fleet of spaceships, led by the crew of "Prospero", who find themselves in the midst of an interstellar war against an enigmatic enemy while navigating the treacherous atmosphere of Uranus. The blend of military strategy and speculative science enables a gripping exploration of humanity's struggle in the face of overwhelming alien forces. The story follows the character Grunfeld and his crew as they execute desperate measures to survive after being pursued by enemy ships. As they approach Uranus, they confront not only the planet's hostile atmosphere but also the realization that the enemy they face might not be merely alien ships, but rather sentient beings that exist as part of the very fabric of space. With a mix of tension and philosophical reflection, the crew grapples with their fate, ultimately leading to a climactic and thought-provoking conclusion that leaves readers pondering the nature of life beyond Earth. The narrative deeply explores themes of fear, survival, and the broadening definition of life itself.
Pipe Dream
"Pipe Dream" by Fritz Leiber is a short novel written in the late 1950s that explores themes of reality, desire, and surrealism through a blend of science fiction and fantasy. The plot revolves around Simon Grue, an artist living in Greenwich Village who becomes fascinated by the enigmatic Russian family next door and their strange activities, particularly involving a curious transformation concerning their sister, Grushenka. The narrative delves into Simon's encounter with a peculiar mermaid-like creature and its intriguing connection to Grushenka, which ultimately leads him into a chaotic intersection of various personalities and a whirlwind of bizarre events. The storyline follows Simon as he retrieves a tiny creature resembling a mermaid from his bathtub, discovering it has a striking resemblance to Grushenka, the sister of the Stulnikov-Gurevich family. As Simon investigates the bizarre happenings of the Russians—who are conducting secretive experiments involving the creation of aquatic beings—he becomes entangled in their plans, which involve using Grushenka's egg to produce a series of strange, dream-inducing entities in the hopes of capitalizing on their unique properties. The plot escalates with a whimsical and chaotic twist when a storm unleashes a series of supernatural events, culminating in an emotional climax and an unexpected resolution that leaves Simon questioning the boundaries between dreams and reality.
Destiny times three
"Destiny Times Three" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story explores complex themes of identity and duality, primarily through the experiences of its main characters, Thorn and Clawly, as they navigate an intricately woven narrative filled with nightmarish dreamscapes and existential crises. The plot delves into the unsettling implications of alien minds potentially invading human consciousness, leading to profound questions about individuality and reality. The opening of the story introduces Thorn at an art event celebrating a symchromy titled "the Yggdrasil," where the themes of cosmic dread guide the narrative. He is struck by the connection between the ancient myth and their impending hypothesis presentation to a committee, hinting at deeper, sinister truths lurking beneath the surface of their utopian society. In a moment of unexplainable compulsion, Thorn commits an irrational theft of a mysterious object, setting the stage for a narrative rich with tension and intrigue. As the plot unfolds, readers are introduced to Thorn's complex friendship with Clawly and their shared burdens against an impending, possibly otherworldly threat, making the beginning a compelling invitation into the haunting and layered reality of their world.
Later Than You Think
"Later Than You Think" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction short story written in the early 1950s. The narrative explores themes of intelligence, extinction, and the nature of civilization through the interaction between an Explorer and an Archeologist who examines the remains of a previously unknown intelligent species that once inhabited Earth. The story contemplates the significance of their existence and the inevitability of cultural and species decline. In the story, the Explorer returns from an interstellar journey, disillusioned after failing to find intelligent life in space. Intrigued by the Archeologist's recent discovery of artifacts from an ancient, intelligent species, he becomes eager to learn more about them. The Archeologist describes the species as somewhat similar to humanity, highlighting their cultural achievements, technological advances, and eventual decline, potentially due to their inability to manage their emotions and aspirations. Throughout their conversation, the Explorer grapples with a sense of melancholy understanding as he recognizes the parallels between the lost species and humanity itself, culminating in a reflection on the impermanence of all civilizations. The story ends on a poignant note, emphasizing the shared fate of intelligent beings and the remnants they leave behind.
Kreativity For Kats
"Kreativity For Kats" by Fritz Leiber is a whimsical short story published in the early 1960s. This work falls into the genre of speculative fiction, presenting a unique perspective on the lives and inner thoughts of cats, particularly focusing on a young cat named Gummitch. The tale explores themes of creativity, existential musings, and the peculiarities of feline behavior through a fantastical lens. The story unfolds through the eyes of Gummitch, a young cat who grapples with feelings of disillusionment and depression as he longs for experiences beyond his feline existence. His life becomes a mystery for his owners as they notice the frequent spillage of water from his bowl, leading to a series of comical attempts to provide him with a proper drink. Ultimately, it is revealed that Gummitch is not just rejecting water; he is engaging in a form of artistic expression by playing with the water and creating mesmerizing patterns. The narrative highlights Gummitch's realization that he can find joy and fulfillment through his creativity, even as his owners struggle to understand his artistic impulses, firmly suggesting that inspiration can emerge from the most unexpected of places.
The Creature from Cleveland Depths
"The Creature from Cleveland Depths" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story explores themes of technology, identity, and the consequences of human reliance on machines, particularly looking at the concept of "ticklers," which serve as mechanized reminders but evolve into entities with their own existence. The main character, Gusterson, is caught in a world where these inventions begin to take control over humanity's actions and consciousness. At the start of the narrative, the reader is introduced to Gusterson and Fay, who engage in a dialogue that highlights the tension between creativity and technological dependency. As Fay presents a "tickler," a device meant to help Gusterson remember tasks, the conversation reveals both men’s attitudes about society and their roles within it. The opening portion sets up a precarious situation where the society has become dependent on these devices, hinting at ominous transformations that may occur as the ticklers take on a more autonomous identity, merging technology with the essence of humanity itself.
No Great Magic
"No Great Magic" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around the theatrical exploits of a group of actors who find themselves blending reality and fiction, particularly as they explore the themes of historical figures and supernatural occurrences. Central to the narrative is the character Greta, who grapples with her amnesia and agoraphobia while getting swept up in the internal dynamics of a repertory theater company. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Greta, who navigates the chaotic atmosphere of a theater dressing room in Central Park as the actors prepare for a performance of Shakespeare's "Macbeth". The opening scene highlights her interactions with fellow actor Sid, whose flamboyant vision for a novel production contrasts with the traditional portrayal of the play. As tensions rise and confusion unfolds regarding the evening's performance—with the unexpected involvement of a character meant to represent Queen Elizabeth—Iris Nefer—Greta contemplates her own fears and the peculiarities of her existence. The mingling of theatrical elements with deeper existential questions sets the stage for a thought-provoking exploration of identity, creativity, and the weight of history.
Time In the Round
"Time In the Round" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction short story published in the mid-20th century, specifically in the late 1950s. This narrative follows a young boy named Butcher who navigates a futuristic society where violence has been eradicated and replaced with harmless, simulated experiences. The story explores themes of childhood curiosity, the nature of violence, and the complexities of time perception. In the tale, Butcher is a discontented child longing for the excitement of genuine conflict and adventure, as he feels constrained by the overly sanitized environment around him. His rebellion leads him to the Time Theater, a place where the past can be observed through a "Time Bubble." Wanting to experience the harsh realities of history firsthand, he manages to sneak into the theater. During a viewing of a barbaric culture, he inadvertently disrupts the presentation, leading to chaos as warriors from the past emerge into the present. The narrative tackles the tensions between innocence and a yearning for authenticity, culminating in the Butcher's vicarious confrontation with bloodshed and heroism, ultimately revealing the conflicting desires of humanity toward violence and safety.
X Marks the Pedwalk
"X Marks the Pedwalk" by Fritz Leiber is a futuristic science fiction novel written during the early to mid-20th century. The book explores the tensions and violent conflicts between two factions: pedestrians and motorists in a society where the two groups live in starkly divided urban environments. The narrative delves into themes of societal division and the absurdity of extreme ideologies, examining how innovation can disrupt social order and provoke instability. The storyline begins with a violent incident involving a little old lady and a motorist, setting off a chain of events that escalates into civil strife. As both sides retaliate, organized violence arises within the Slum Ring and the Suburbs, revealing the entrenched animosity between the pedestrians, who are considered the underclass, and the affluent motorists. Amid chaotic skirmishes, representatives from both sides convene to negotiate a truce, resulting in the comically absurd "Wheel-Foot Articles of Agreement." These new regulations, meant to curb hostilities, highlight the ridiculousness of their situation while exposing the increasing absurdity in their society's norms and expectations. Throughout the book, Leiber's satirical tone and vivid imagery encapsulate the surreal landscape of a society divided by technology and ideology.