Author
Arnold Marmor
1927-1978
Arnold Marmor (1927-1978) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Arnold Marmor
Not in the Script
"Not in the Script" by Arnold Marmor is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story hinges on a critical mission to deceive Martian visitors into believing that Earth is technologically inferior to prevent an impending invasion. The plot highlights the creative efforts of the protagonist, Jules Barnes, who must write and direct a play meant to showcase this fabricated narrative, emphasizing the threat of interplanetary conflict during the era of the Cold War. In the story, playwright Jules Barnes is unexpectedly enlisted by Captain Colen Shratt to produce a play that will mislead Martians about Earth's true capabilities. As the Martians prepare to visit, Barnes tirelessly collaborates with global leaders and industry experts to orchestrate a convincing performance, designed to make them appear inept and unthreatening. Throughout the play's production, tensions rise as Barnes grapples with the weight of his responsibilities. Ultimately, as the Martians depart believing that Earth poses no threat, Shratt and the military reveal their true intentions to launch a counter-offensive against Mars, leaving Barnes to ponder the moral implications of their deception.
Birthday Present
"Birthday Present" by Arnold Marmor is a crime fiction story written during the early 1950s. The narrative centers around a tense and morally ambiguous situation involving an illicit love affair that culminates in a shocking act of violence. The book deals with themes of love, betrayal, and the lengths one might go to for another person, set against a backdrop that combines elements of science fiction with a noir atmosphere. The story unfolds primarily through the perspective of the unnamed protagonist who is infatuated with Diane, a woman married to a man frequently away on Mars. As Diane's birthday approaches, she devises a sinister plan that involves her lover killing her husband, presenting a thrilling blend of romance and crime. The protagonist finds himself torn between his love for Diane and the moral implications of committing murder. The tension escalates when the plan is set in motion, leading to a climactic moment filled with unexpected twists, culminating in a shocking revelation that turns a birthday celebration into a chilling and unforgettable scene.
The Scandalized Martians
"The Scandalized Martians" by Arnold Marmor is a satirical science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The narrative follows the misadventures of an ambitious filmmaker, David Fry, who dreams of creating a groundbreaking and realistic film that includes Martians. Through its comedic lens, the book explores themes of creativity, censorship, and the absurdities of Hollywood. The story centers around the eccentric director David Fry, who is determined to produce an epic film depicting life on Mars with actual Martians. Initially met with skepticism, Fry eventually convinces his friend and screenwriter Ronnie to collaborate on this unconventional project. Fry's ambition leads him to encounter a group of Martians, whose bizarre requests and societal norms clash with his vision for the film. The humor escalates as Fry's stubbornness drives the Martians away, ultimately leading to their departure back to Mars. The novella cleverly critiques the film industry and highlights the chaotic interactions between artistic vision and external restrictions.
Marty the Martian
"Marty the Martian" by Arnold Marmor is a science fiction story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around Nick Faber, who is tasked by Norbert Marsten, the owner of a circus, to travel to Mars and capture a Martian for his show. The book explores themes of alien encounters and human ambition as Marsten seeks to create a sensational attraction that no other circus possesses. The story follows Nick Faber as he embarks on a daring journey to Mars with his pilot, Joe Roane. Upon landing, they encounter strange Martians, which leads to a grim fate for Roane and an unexpected twist for Nick. The Martians, using a machine to transfer consciousness, swap bodies with Nick, leaving him trapped in a Martian form and making him the centerpiece of Marsten's circus. As Nick grapples with his new reality as "Marty the Martian," he realizes that the plot goes deeper, as the Martians plan to use Marsten for their own objectives. The narrative blends humor with a cautionary tale about the dangers of ambition and the exploitation of the unknown.
Fish Fry
"Fish Fry" by Arnold Marmor is a science fiction short story published in the mid-20th century, particularly in the early 1950s. The narrative follows the unexpected encounter of the protagonist, Carol Engelholtz, with an alien named Hrodes, who mistakenly gets hooked while fishing in the ocean off Key West. The story explores themes of misunderstanding and communication across species, while also embedding humor in its portrayal of alien encounters. In the story, Engelholtz enjoys a relaxing day of deep-sea fishing when he unexpectedly hooks Hrodes, an alien from the planet Grenaria, who can speak English and needs help to complete his mission on Earth. The protagonist's excitement turns to chaos when he leaves Hrodes in the bathtub at home while he fetches a local professor for validation. Unfortunately, Hrodes gets mistaken for a fish by Engelholtz's cook, leading to a comically tragic conclusion when Hrodes is prepared for dinner. The story delivers a humorous take on the mishaps that can occur when two cultures—human and extraterrestrial—collide in misunderstood ways.
Spies Die Hard!
"Spies Die Hard!" by Arnold Marmor is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around espionage and betrayal on Mars, where the line between loyalty and treachery blurs amid interplanetary conflict. With a mix of intrigue and high-stakes tension, the book presents a gripping tale featuring espionage elements in a futuristic setting. The narrative follows Lynn Brickel, a Martian agent who is drawn into a dangerous game when she encounters Harry Horn, a former associate turned fugitive accused of being a spy for Earth. As the tension rises, Lynn grapples with her loyalties and the chilling implications of Horn's betrayal. The story unfolds as Horn seeks her help to escape the clutches of the ruthless Security Chief, Lazar, who is determined to capture him. In a dramatic twist, Lynn turns the tables on Horn, ultimately confronting the reality of her situation and the cost of survival in a world fraught with deceit. The book explores themes of trust, survival, and the moral complexities of espionage.