Author
Tom Purdom
Born 1936
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Books by Tom Purdom
The warriors
"The Warriors" by Tom Purdom is a science fiction novel likely written during the early 1960s. The book explores the theme of non-violent resistance in a future where the consequences of international violence have become increasingly dire. It presents a unique approach to conflict resolution against the backdrop of a world where traditional warfare is obsolete, thus highlighting the paradox of maintaining peace through non-violent means. The story follows MacFarland, an agent on a mission to extract a team of valuable scientists from the beleaguered country of Belderkan. As tensions rise, he faces a hostile crowd and must navigate through both psychological and tactical challenges to secure the scientists' departure. The narrative builds to a climax wherein MacFarland participates in a painful duel—a form of psychological conflict that serves as a modern substitute for traditional combat. Through pain and endurance, he ultimately influences the outcome in favor of peaceful resolution, reflecting on the nature of sacrifice, national pride, and the lengths one will go to prevent violence. The novel blends action, ethical dilemmas, and social commentary on human nature and international relations.
The Green Beret
"The Green Beret" by Tom Purdom is a science fiction short story written in the early 1960s. It is set in a future where the United Nations has evolved into a significant global authority, tasked with enforcing international peace and order. The story primarily explores the themes of duty, sacrifice, and the moral complexities faced by soldiers in a society grappling with political unrest and the threat of war. The narrative follows Corporal Harry Read, a member of the UN Inspector Corps, as he embarks on a dangerous mission to arrest the dictator Umluana, who has escalated military tensions in Africa. The story vividly depicts Read's internal struggles and development as he faces intense conflict while trying to ensure Umluana is brought to justice. Through a series of action-packed scenes involving gunfire, gas warfare, and the desperate fight for survival at a transmitter station, Read grapples with loyalty to his mission and the realities of combat. Ultimately, as he pushes through the challenges, his character is tested in ways he never anticipated, leading to show his bravery and selflessness in the face of imminent danger.
Sordman the Protector
"Sordman the Protector" by Tom Purdom is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The narrative explores themes of power, responsibility, and the complexities of human emotions in a futuristic society where psionics, or psychic abilities, play a critical role. The story revolves around Andrew Sordman, a talented psionic adept known as a "Talent," who is tasked with protecting people from the misuse of these extraordinary powers. In this gripping tale, Sordman faces the challenge of addressing two murders connected to a young girl accused of witchcraft. As he investigates, he confronts the emotional turmoil and fear of those around him, navigating through the psyche of both the innocent and the guilty. His journey takes him through encounters with various individuals, including frightened townsfolk and potential suspects, revealing the deep-rooted fears and desires that influence their actions. Ultimately, Sordman's role as Protector is tested as he must find a way to save the girl while also containing a dangerous individual driven by jealousy and insanity, illustrating the delicate balance between power and compassion in a world rife with fear and misunderstanding.
The man who wouldn't sign up
"The Man Who Wouldn't Sign Up" by Thomas E. Purdom is a speculative fiction story written in the late 1950s. The narrative follows the life of Henry Westing, a man determined to live independently without conforming to societal pressures or the need to belong to any organization. The story explores themes of individuality versus community, the meaning of belonging, and personal freedom in the face of external expectations. In the book, Henry Westing repeatedly faces pressure from others to join various groups, whether it be in college, the workplace, or social circles. Despite these pressures, he chooses to remain solo, enjoying his life independently, filled with music, friends, and arts. His solitude attracts the attention of "The Organization," a group aimed at uniting those who feel disconnected. Westing’s encounters with various recruiters, including a psychologist from the Organization, force him to confront the societal expectation that belonging to a group is essential for fulfillment. As he grapples with this notion, he resists temptation but also realizes the value of connection when he reaches out to another potential recruit. The book illustrates Westing's struggle against the tides of conformity, ultimately advocating for the importance of individual choice amidst societal coercion.