Author
James V. McConnell
1925-1990
James V. McConnell (1925-1990) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by James V. McConnell
Hunting License
"Hunting License" by James V. McConnell is a satirical science fiction story written in the early to mid-20th century. The narrative touches upon themes of crime and legality through a twisted version of hunting, where wealthy individuals hunt criminals as if they were game. The story reflects on society's attitudes toward punishment and justice in a darkly humorous manner. The plot centers around two characters, William Karsten III and Thomas Thurman, who embark on a hunting expedition for criminals, guided by Emmett Packer. As they prepare for their hunt, the characters engage in amusing banter that highlights their penchant for trophy hunting of human beings, treating their quarry as mere game. During the hunt, they discover a naked man hiding in the forest, whom they initially perceive as a subversive criminal. Following a chase, they realize that the man could be a familiar figure from Karsten's past—one of his former professors. Ultimately, Karsten chooses not to shoot him, illustrating a complex interplay of personal history, ethics, and the morbid thrill of the hunt in McConnell's chillingly comedic tale.
Avoidance Situation
"Avoidance Situation" by James V. McConnell is a science fiction narrative written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Captain Allen Hawkins and his crew aboard the spaceship "Sunward", who find themselves in a dire predicament with the alien Dakn Empire, facing an ultimatum that threatens the very existence of humanity. The book explores themes of choice, survival, and the human spirit when confronted with overwhelming odds. The plot follows the crew of the "Sunward" as they discover a new habitable planet named Trellis and subsequently encounter an alien named Lan Sur, who presents them with a dire choice: surrender to the Dakn Empire or face annihilation. Captain Hawkins grapples with the implications of this decision, emphasizing the need for humanity's survival over pride. As they attempt to prepare for the inevitable confrontation, they also confront their own emotional responses and the weight of their choices. Ultimately, Hawkins devises a daring plan to escape by using the ship's subspace drive, leading to a climactic moment that not only determines the fate of his crew but also shapes the future trajectory of the human race in the cosmos.
Learning Theory
"Learning Theory" by James V. McConnell is a science fiction novel written during the late 1950s. The book explores themes of psychology and behaviorism through a unique narrative that examines concepts of learning, an important topic in the field of psychology. The protagonist, a psychologist, finds himself unwittingly studying his own behavior after being abducted and placed in a series of experimental tests reminiscent of the Skinner Box. The story unfolds as the main character grapples with his identity and circumstances after being taken aboard an alien spaceship. He realizes that he has become a subject in an experiment designed by an alien psychologist, where he must navigate various learning tasks—including pressing levers for food and solving mazes—while dealing with the psychological implications of his situation. As he experiences the trials imposed by his captor, he reflects on the nature of learning and behavior, ultimately trying to thwart the alien’s expectations by manipulating the results of his own performance. The novel challenges the reader to consider the ethical dimensions of experimentation and the limits of scientific understanding in the realm of behavior.
"Phone Me in Central Park"
"Phone Me in Central Park" by James V. McConnell is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story explores themes of isolation and existential despair in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has been decimated by a mysterious plague, leaving one man, Charles, as the last person alive in New York City. Set against the backdrop of empty streets and silent environments, the narrative delves into the psychological turmoil of the protagonist grappling with loneliness and searching for meaning in a near-deserted world. The plot follows Charles as he navigates his new reality, marked by confusion and grief. Initially mourning the loss of the beautiful woman beside him, he soon discovers that he is the last survivor in a world where all other humans have perished. As he ventures out into the wreckage of civilization, he seeks answers from the Bureau of Vital Statistics and quickly realizes he is utterly alone. The story culminates in his final moments as he grapples with the futility of existence and the absurdity of his situation, leading to a haunting reflection on life and death. Ultimately, the poignant inscription on his makeshift grave encapsulates his bitter acceptance and the irony of being the last man left on Earth.
Grandma Perkins and the Space Pirates
"Grandma Perkins and the Space Pirates" by James V. McConnell is a science fiction novella written during the mid-20th century. The story follows Grandma Matilda Perkins, a seemingly frail old lady, as she embarks on an unexpected adventure aboard the space cruise ship "Kismet", which is suddenly attacked by space pirates. While the narrative explores themes of aging and the unexpected strength of the elderly, it intertwines elements of humor, adventure, and the whimsical concepts associated with space travel. In this engaging tale, Grandma Perkins finds herself in a precarious situation when the "Kismet" is boarded by pirates seeking to kidnap the famous actress Darling Toujours for ransom. Instead of cowering in fear, Grandma cleverly takes charge of the situation by pretending to be the actress, outsmarting the pirates, and eventually turning the tables on them. As Grandma navigates her way through this chaotic adventure, offering wit and wisdom, she ultimately manages to secure her own safety while providing a comical twist to the pirates' intentions. Through a fabulously entertaining blend of mischief and bravery, the story highlights Grandma's resilient spirit and the notion that one is never too old for adventure.
Nor Dust Corrupt
"Nor Dust Corrupt" by James V. McConnell is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story centers around Joseph Krieg, a wealthy man from the galaxy who seeks burial on Earth, specifically in Manhattan Park, a prestigious burial ground. The narrative explores themes of mortality, desire, and the sociopolitical implications surrounding death and burial customs in a future where Earth acts as a significant yet congested ancestral home. The plot unfolds as Consolator Steen, a representative of Earth’s burial services, meets with Krieg to discuss his request. Steen paints a grim picture of the burial options available on Earth due to severe space limitations—most people are cremated and stored in small cubes, while only the richest, including the legendary C.T. Anderman, can expect to be buried in a prestigious location like Manhattan Park. As the conversation progresses, Krieg is led to question the worth of his wealth in pursuit of a burial plot. Ultimately, in a twist, he decides against spending his fortune on such a luxury, recognizing the futility of it all while hinting at a deeper insight into the politics surrounding death and legacy. The story ends with a lingering sense of irony about ambition, legacy, and the natural cycle of life and death.
Life Sentence
"Life Sentence" by James V. McConnell is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story explores themes of aging, death, and the struggle for autonomy within a society that has transformed individuals into perpetual wards of the state. The narrative follows Oliver Symmes, an elderly man confined to a hospital for the aged, where he grapples with his own memories and the limitations of his body, as well as the profound feelings of loss and betrayal stemming from a pivotal crime in his youth. The story centers around Oliver Symmes and his tormented past that resurfaces as he exists in a future society where the concept of death has almost become obsolete. After committing murder in a fit of passion during his youth, Oliver is subjected to a life sentence that leads to his ongoing existence within a hospital setting, designed to prolong life regardless of quality. As he reflects on fleeting memories of love and the vitality of youth contrasted with the shadows of his present confinement, Oliver's struggle encapsulates a poignant exploration of the human condition—the desire to live and the instinct to seek an end to one’s suffering. The narrative crescendos with his futile attempts to escape the clutches of enforced life through self-destruction, ultimately highlighting the irony of a life unfulfilled and the fight against an imposed existence devoid of freedom.