Author
Mack Reynolds
1917-1983
Mack Reynolds (1917-1983) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Mack Reynolds
Status Quo
"Status Quo" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story follows Lawrence Woolford, a government employee in Greater Washington, who becomes embroiled in a conspiracy involving counterfeit money and a mysterious organization known as "the Movement." As Woolford navigates the pressures of societal expectations and bureaucratic intricacies, he uncovers deeper implications regarding this underground group advocating for change in the social status quo. The opening of "Status Quo" introduces us to Lawrence Woolford, who is reluctantly pulled from his vacation by his superior to investigate a peculiar case of counterfeit fifty-dollar bills. The bills appear so expertly reproduced that even the Secret Service is bewildered. Woolford is drawn into a world of bureaucracy and espionage when he is introduced to a young suspect, Susan Self, who claims that her father is involved in this underground Movement. As the narrative unfolds, the tension builds around the Movement's potential implications for society, leading Woolford to question not only the motivations behind the counterfeiting but also the very framework of social order and personal identity. The early chapters set the stage for a complex web of intrigue, exploring themes of conformity, rebellion, and the nature of authority.
Ultima Thule
"Ultima Thule" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story follows Ronald "Ronny" Bronston, a young man with aspirations of working for the United Planets in interplanetary affairs, as he navigates interviews and assignments related to a mysterious figure named Tommy Paine, rumored to be inciting revolutions across the galaxy. Bronston’s journey introduces him to bureaucratic absurdities and interplanetary politics, testing his beliefs and skills along the way. At the start of the narrative, Ronny Bronston's application for a position in the Commissariat of Interplanetary Affairs leads him through a series of interviews and instructions on his new role. He learns that his first assignment is to find Tommy Paine, a legendary individual believed to be behind a number of uprisings in the United Planets. The opening sections explore themes of identity, bureaucracy, and the challenges of maintaining cultural integrity amid expansion into space. The interaction between Ronny and the personnel officers, as well as his later partnership with Tog Lee Chang Chu, sets the stage for a blend of action and political satire as they embark on their mission to locate Paine amidst the chaos that follows the political upheaval on New Delos.
Border, Breed Nor Birth
"Border, Breed Nor Birth" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novella published in the 1960s. Dr. Homer Crawford resigns from the Reunited Nations to become El Hassan, a revolutionary leader determined to unite North Africa. Branded an outlaw, he flees into the Sahara with his followers to build an army from diverse tribes and recapture the occupied city of Tamanrasset. As foreign powers vie for influence and spies infiltrate his ranks, Crawford must navigate treacherous alliances while pursuing his vision of African independence.
After Some Tomorrow
"After Some Tomorrow" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story is set in a post-apocalyptic world where societal structures have changed drastically, particularly regarding gender roles and the meaning of family within clans. It explores themes of survival, the function of men and women in society, and the biological imperatives driving human relationships in a time of existential threat. The plot follows Alan, the only husband of the Wolf clan, who finds himself in a precarious situation as rival clans attempt to raid and capture him. The story begins with Alan instructing the clan’s children when a raid erupts, leading to a tense battle where he realizes the fragility of their existence. As the plot unfolds, Alan grapples with his role as a man in a society that has relegated men to a secondary status due to fertility issues. After successfully repelling the raid, he proposes a controversial plan to breed with women from the rival clans to preserve the human race. The climax comes as Alan advocates for radical changes in their society, facing resistance from the other women in the clan who are reluctant to abandon their traditional values. The novel raises thought-provoking questions about gender, power, and the future of humanity in the wake of societal collapse.
The Good Seed
"The Good Seed" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction short story written in the late 1950s. The narrative unfolds on a distant, Earth-like planet called Mersey, focusing on Calvin Mulloy, a top survey engineer who finds himself stranded on a small island during a violent storm. The story explores themes of survival, existential dread, and the quest for significance in life, especially through the eyes of one's own mortality. As the storm intensifies, Calvin encounters an intelligent plant that also faces imminent death due to the rising waters. Their conversations reveal Calvin's inner turmoil and his desperation to accomplish something meaningful before his potential demise. The plant expresses a different perspective on life and death, emphasizing the importance of having seeded and contributed to existence even in the face of mortality. Eventually, in a moment of revelation, Calvin realizes the true essence of living not just for oneself but for a greater purpose, culminating in his act of saving the plant's seeds, which symbolizes hope and continuity beyond his own life.
Tourists to Terra
"Tourists to Terra" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around a group of wealthy thrill-seekers from a distant future who journey to Earth to indulge in the excitement of participating in historical battles. Set against the backdrop of ancient conflicts, it explores themes of adventure and the ethical implications of playing with the past. The narrative follows the crew of a luxury spaceship that caters to affluent tourists seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences. As they engage in simulated battles, the tourists’ reckless behavior leads to dangerous encounters, particularly with a historical figure, Diomed from Greek mythology. Tensions rise when the passengers express a desire for genuine excitement, pushing the boundaries of safety. After a series of mishaps, including one passenger getting wounded, the crew decides to travel even further into Earth's future, only to confront the potential devastation of atomic warfare. The story ultimately critiques the notion of thrill-seeking without considering the consequences, culminating in a suspenseful climax as the spaceship approaches an era of nuclear weapons.
Not in the Rules
"Not in the Rules" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written during the early 1950s. The story revolves around the concept of interplanetary gladiatorial games, where representatives from various planets compete in fierce battles, and the outcome determines the fates of their respective worlds. The narrative blends elements of adventure with a satirical take on diplomacy and warfare in a future where such contests replace traditional forms of conflict. The plot follows Jak Demsi, an Earth gladiator who unexpectedly becomes the emergency replacement for the Interplanetary Meet after the original participant goes missing. Despite being an underdog, Jak finds himself thrust into the spotlight, battling against otherworldly gladiators in a dangerous and politically charged arena. As the competition unfolds, he employs strategy over brute strength, using tactics inspired by ancient customs to outsmart his opponents. His unique approach draws both admiration and scorn, ultimately leading to a pivotal moment where his actions challenge the established rules of the games. Jak's journey not only showcases his fight for survival but also critiques the absurdities of a system where strength is measured by the spectacle of violence rather than honor or morality.
Farmer
"Farmer" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. It explores themes of environmental restoration and the complex interactions between modern agricultural techniques and traditional nomadic lifestyles. The narrative is set against the backdrop of the Sahara Desert, where a project aimed at reforestation encounters significant challenges posed by local tribes and their livestock. The story centers on Johnny McCord, an American involved in the Sahara Reforestation Commission, who grapples with the destruction caused by nomadic herds of goats and the sabotage of crucial water pumps. As McCord navigates the bureaucratic and logistical hurdles of the reforestation effort, he faces conflicts with local tribes and a visiting journalist, Hélène Desage, whose perspective threatens to undermine their work. As tensions escalate, it becomes evident that external forces are manipulating the situation for their gain. The plot weaves together themes of environmentalism, cultural conflict, and geopolitical intrigue, culminating in a confrontation that challenges McCord’s efforts to secure the future of the desert ecosystem while upholding the rights of the nomads.
The Cosmic Bluff
"The Cosmic Bluff" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. Set within a futuristic Solar System, the story explores themes of identity, courage, and societal expectations through the lens of gladiatorial combat. The protagonist, Jak Dempsi, is portrayed as a reluctant hero who grapples with the implications of his newfound fame as the Solar System Champion, having unintentionally gained the title through a series of fortuitous events. The narrative follows Jak Dempsi as he navigates the challenges of his role as champion amid growing tensions with extraterrestrial Centaurians. After a drunken comment, Jak inadvertently challenges them to a fight, which escalates into a battle for the fate of the Solar System. Throughout the ordeal, Jak confronts his own insecurities, particularly regarding his worthiness as a champion, while trying to win back his fiancée, Suzi. Suspecting his success is a bluff, he ultimately discovers the truth behind the bizarre circumstances of his victory and the credibility he needs to reclaim both his honor and relationship. The story cleverly combines humor and social commentary, resulting in an engaging tale of self-discovery and authenticity.
Halftripper
"Halftripper" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story explores the existential fears of space travel, focusing on the tragic lives of individuals who become "halftrippers," those who have succumbed to crippling mental illness due to the terror of space. The narrative provides a glimpse into the psychological struggles of these characters against the backdrop of interplanetary travel and the contrasting experiences of immortality and madness. The story centers around a character named Micheal, who is haunted by his past decisions regarding his brother Joseph and their fallen son during a crisis on the satellite Calypso. As Micheal navigates the bars of Mars, he encounters Joseph, who has become an immortal wanderer driven by guilt and madness. Their tragic backstory unfolds as they grapple with the consequences of their choices, revealing the deep emotional scars left from their experiences. The book addresses themes of redemption, the burden of memory, and the haunting nature of guilt, all within the context of a vividly imagined universe. As Micheal reflects on his own regrets, he comes to understand the profound differences in their realities, emphasizing the weight of consciousness in contrast to the dulling escape of madness.
Black Man's Burden
"Black Man's Burden" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel published in 1962. In a near-future North Africa, sociologist Dr. Homer Crawford leads an all-black team posing as itinerant smiths, secretly spreading Western ideals of equality and liberty among nomadic tribes. They attribute their teachings to El Hassan, a fictional visionary leader. When the Reunited Nations orders Crawford to find this mysterious El Hassan, the mission forces him to confront dangerous betrayals, assassination attempts, and a troubling question: who should El Hassan truly be?
Mercy Flight
"Mercy Flight" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story explores themes of individualism and heroism in the context of space travel, focusing on the urgent situation of a young girl in need of medical assistance after a nuclear disaster on Luna. The narrative unfolds in a futuristic setting where space travel is routine but fraught with danger, and characters face both technological and emotional challenges in their endeavors. The plot centers around Phil Mooney, a former war pilot turned operator of an unscheduled spaceline, who is on a desperate mission to transport Lillian Marshall, the only survivor of an explosion that killed her parents. As Mooney navigates the challenges of communicating with Earth’s spaceports while en route, he reflects on his experiences from the war and the loneliness of space. Complications arise when he encounters radio malfunctions, making it difficult to get landing instructions. Meanwhile, on Earth, journalists scramble to cover the unfolding drama, leading to a climactic moment when Mooney successfully lands and the medical care for Lillian is guaranteed. Through this high-stakes scenario, the story examines the notions of courage, self-reliance, and the impact of community in times of crisis.
The Galactic Ghost
"The Galactic Ghost" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story delves into humanity's encounter with an alien spacecraft that lands on Earth, ultimately broadcasting a telepathic warning of impending destruction and a proposal for humanity's survival. The book explores themes of unity, societal structure, and the essential qualities needed in future colonists as Earth faces an existential crisis. The narrative begins with the startling arrival of an alien ship in New Jersey, which sends a message to all of humanity about their imminent doom. In the five-year period leading to the ship's return, global tension rises as nations and individuals jockey for position to be among the one thousand chosen to escape Earth. Multiple debates and conflicts arise, exposing deep-rooted societal inequalities. Ultimately, a group led by Monsieur Pierre Duclos promotes the idea of choosing the most suitable candidates for survival, prioritizing skills and knowledge over nationality or wealth. When the alien returns, it reveals that the destruction was averted not by evacuation but through humanity’s newfound unity and progress sparked by the crisis. Duclos, skeptical of the alien's motives, reflects on the irony of humanity's situation in the wake of this profound social shift.
Potential Enemy
"Potential Enemy" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The book centers on humanity's first contact with a seemingly alien intelligence that has been secretly cohabiting Earth for centuries, ultimately delving into themes of fear, prejudice, and the human tendency to perceive even potential friends as threats. The narrative follows a seasoned journalist who becomes embroiled in the conflicting paradigms of xenophobia and diplomacy when the elusive beings reveal their presence. The story unfolds as Markham Gray becomes the first human to communicate with an alien species, only to discover that they are tiny descendants of terrestrial life, having developed advanced intelligence while remaining hidden from humanity. As Gray seeks to understand their intentions, the military, driven by fear and a desire for dominance, resolves to annihilate the alien presence, viewing them as a potential enemy rather than a possible ally. Throughout the novel, Gray wrestles with the moral implications of humanity's instinct to eliminate perceived threats, building towards a compelling commentary on the nature of human interaction with other intelligent life and the risks of perpetuating cycles of hostility.
The Martians and the Coys
"The Martians and the Coys" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction story published in the early 1950s. The book cleverly intertwines elements of rural life with a fantastical invasion of Earth by Martians. The narrative explores themes of misunderstanding and cultural collision through the comedic lens of a family living in the Kentucky hills and their ignorant yet determined pursuit of supposed "Martins," which confuse the alien visitors into thinking they are dealing with terrestrial warriors instead. In the story, we follow the Coy family, primarily through their simple-minded son, Lem, who longs to hunt Martins while his family grapples with the everyday struggle of moonshining and the fear of revenuers. Meanwhile, a Martian commander, Seegeel Wan, arrives on Earth with his crew to carry out a mission of conquest using advanced weapons designed to eliminate Earth's residents. However, the aliens' efforts fail comically as they mistakenly engage with the Coys in a series of misunderstandings and absurd encounters. The story culminates in the Martians realizing that their elaborate plans are rendered futile by the simplicity of the humans, leaving the reader entertained by the humorous twist on the classic alien invasion trope.
A Zloor for Your Trouble!
"A Zloor for Your Trouble!" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around a professional hunter named Napoleon Prescott, who embarks on a mission to capture a mysterious Martian creature known as a zloor. The narrative is set against the backdrop of Mars, exploring themes of alien life and the challenges of hunting in an extraterrestrial environment. In the book, Prescott is approached by Westley Marks, a man representing the government, who offers him a bet and a job to capture at least one zloor, a rabbit-sized creature suspected to be an alien life form. As Prescott navigates life on Mars, he discovers the zloor's unique properties—its extraordinary weight and impenetrable hide, which complicate his mission. Despite initial setbacks and humorous encounters with fellow hunters, Prescott ultimately devises a clever strategy using peach pits to securely capture and transport two zloors back to Earth, challenging the expectations of both Marks and the other hunters in a delightful conclusion. The story combines adventure, humor, and a sense of camaraderie among the professional hunters, making it a captivating read for fans of science fiction.
Subversive
"Subversive" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The book explores themes of economic disparity and anti-establishment sentiments, portraying a future world where basic commodities, like soap, are sold at inexplicably low prices through a secretive organization aiming to subvert the current socio-economic order. This narrative delves into the implications of undercutting established markets and the possible consequences on employment and the economy as a whole. The story centers around Warren Dickens, a young soap salesman, who introduces a brand of nameless soap sold for merely three cents a bar by cutting out middlemen and traditional advertising. This unconventional business model garners the attention of Frank Tracy, an operative from the Bureau of Economic Subversion, who begins investigating Dickens and his employer, Freer Enterprises. As Tracy delves deeper, he uncovers a plot led by Moncure, the head of Freer Enterprises, who intends to not only sell soap but eventually disrupt the economy by providing goods at drastically lower prices, posing a threat to a system reliant on consumerism and advertising-driven jobs. The tension rises as Tracy grapples with the moral implications of defending an arguably flawed economic system while taking drastic measures to neutralize the perceived threat from Freer Enterprises.
I'm a Stranger Here Myself
"I'm a Stranger Here Myself" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction short story written in the early 1960s. The narrative unfolds in the vibrant and eclectic setting of Tangier, showcasing the interplay of diverse cultures and characters within the cosmopolitan city. The story satirically explores themes of alien life and human behavior, as two characters engage in a conversation filled with humor and speculative ideas about extraterrestrial observers. The plot centers around the protagonist, Rupert, and his acquaintance Paul, who share a discussion at a café in Tangier. As they sip beer and converse casually, their dialogue evolves into a humorous exchange about the possibility of aliens observing Earth from a distance. They ponder the chaotic state of humanity, contrasting advanced alien civilizations with the challenges faced by modern societies. In a whimsical twist, they even jest about their own identities as aliens studying human culture, leading to insights about human nature and the absurdities of life. The story is both a humorous portrayal of human existence and a witty thought experiment on the nature of observation and alien life.
Adaptation
"Adaptation" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story explores humanity’s ambitious attempts at interstellar colonization and the complex challenges faced when Earthlings attempt to reintegrate and civilize isolated human colonies that have developed over a millennium. The characters include the Co-ordinator, who oversees the mission, and Academicians Amschel Mayer and Leonid Plekhanov, who represent different viewpoints on how to guide and adapt these new societies. The opening of the novel introduces a futuristic society that has begun sending small groups of colonists to Earth-like planets across the galaxy, creating new civilizations from the remnants of previous pioneers. This segment delves into the anticipation and pressure felt by the team as they prepare for their monumental tasks, knowing their strategies will guide the future of humanity’s expansion into the galaxy. The dynamics between Mayer and Plekhanov outline contrasting ideologies regarding governance and societal development, setting up a tension-filled backdrop for their impending journey to the planets Genoa and Texcoco. As the story unfolds, the focus will likely shift towards the challenges these characters face in dealing with the existing cultures and understanding their own roles as guides and leaders.
Spaceman on a Spree
"Spaceman on a Spree" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around the celebrated yet reluctant space pilot Seymour Pond, who has just retired after making six trips exploring the planets. As part of an Ultrawelfare State where the pursuit of adventure has waned in favor of safety and complacency, Pond faces the existential dilemma of whether the exploration of space or the comfort of his newfound retirement is more important. The narrative follows Seymour Pond as he indulges in a lavish spree in Manhattan to celebrate his retirement, only to find himself caught in a whirlwind of excitement and excess. He encounters Natalie Paskov, a beautiful woman who shares his interest in space, but their night together spirals out of control as she leads him to a high-stakes gambling scene. In the aftermath, Seymour wakes up to find he has lost not only his money but also his sense of security. The story explores themes of adventure, societal complacency, and the psychological toll of space travel, ultimately raising important questions about ambition and the human spirit's relationship with exploration and comfort.
Mercenary
"Mercenary" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel published in 1968. In a future where Western society is divided into rigid castes, Joe Mauser, a Mid-Lower soldier, sees one chance for upward mobility: military service. Corporations now settle disputes through televised battles using pre-1900 technology. When Mauser joins an underdog company in a high-stakes corporate war, he bets everything on an untested tactical innovation that could defeat the finest commander in the business—and finally elevate him to the Upper caste.
Frigid Fracas
"Frigid Fracas" by Mack Reynolds is a novel written in the early 1960s. The story is set in a future society where caste systems prevail, leading to a status-driven culture defined by public perception rather than personal merit. Major Joseph Mauser, the main character, navigates this complex social hierarchy as he grapples with his ambitions to rise to a higher caste, facing the realities of his profession as a mercenary in a world obsessed with televised violence and heroic personas. At the start of the narrative, the reader is introduced to Major Mauser, who finds himself inebriated at a military club, contemplating his social standing and ambitions. A conversation with the Telly reporter Freddy Soligen reveals a cynical commentary on how media portrayals shape public perception of heroism. Mauser's desire for recognition and advancement leads him to forge a dubious partnership with Soligen, who proposes a plan that involves risking his life in a dangerous fracas to gain fame. The opening sets the stage for a critique of the intersection between media, militarism, and the pursuit of status, while exploring themes of ambition, identity, and societal class distinctions.
Freedom
"Freedom" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The book navigates the complexities of individual liberty within the context of a repressive regime in the Soviet Union, particularly through the lens of Colonel Ilya Simonov, who grapples with the concepts of freedom, control, and dissent while undergoing a critical mission in Czechoslovakia. The story follows Colonel Ilya Simonov, a security operative who is assigned to investigate the rising tide of dissent in Prague, sparked by desires for greater freedom among the local population. In the Czech capital, Simonov encounters spontaneous political movements and intellectual circles that challenge the dominance of the Party, leading to introspection about his loyalty and the true nature of freedom. As he becomes more entangled in the lives of those around him, including his attractive assistant Catherina Panova and the libre intellectual scenes, Simonov faces the duality of his role as enforcer of the regime and his burgeoning empathy for the cause of freedom. Ultimately, his journey culminates in a personal and professional crisis when he confronts the brutal reality of the Party's oppressive measures, forcing him to make choices that will forever alter his fate and the lives of those he has come to care for.
Combat
"Combat" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around Hank Kuran, an American operative who finds himself thrust into a high-stakes mission when extraterrestrial beings land in Soviet Moscow, presenting a unique challenge in the context of the Cold War. Kuran's task is to communicate the Western viewpoint to these newly arrived beings in the hopes of preventing Soviet dominance through their potential alliance. At the start of the narrative, Henry Kuran returns from an assignment in Peru to discover an unexpected situation in Washington: aliens have landed in Red Square. As he is briefed by his superior, Sheridan Hennessey, he learns of the potential consequences of the extraterrestrials siding with the Soviets. Kuran, who is initially reluctant to be treated as a soldier in this covert operation, must navigate the intricacies of espionage while posing as an average tourist on his way to Moscow. The opening sets a tone of tension and historical significance as Kuran grapples with his role in a world on the brink of change, driven by both political ambitions and the intrigue of interstellar visitors.