Author
Clifford D. Simak
1904-1988
Clifford D. Simak (1904-1988) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Clifford D. Simak
The Shipshape Miracle
"The Shipshape Miracle" by Clifford D. Simak is a science fiction novella written during the early 1960s. The story centers around Cheviot Sherwood, a castaway stranded on an uninhabited planet, contemplating his fate while unknowingly harboring a wealth of diamonds. The book explores themes of identity, humanity, and the merging of man and machine through its foundational premise of a sentient spaceship. In the narrative, Sherwood finds himself in a precarious situation after his spaceship breaks down, rendering him marooned. While grappling with his isolation, he unexpectedly encounters a mysterious black ship that reveals itself to be alive and capable of thought. The ship, which has merged with the consciousness of its human creator, offers Sherwood a way out. However, it soon becomes clear that Sherwood himself might become a part of the ship's existence, as the entity has been searching for someone like him—one who would not be missed in the world. The story culminates in a tension-filled realization of what it means to lose one's humanity in the pursuit of survival and a deeper exploration of the idea that not all miracles are beneficial.
Mr. Meek—Musketeer
"Mr. Meek—Musketeer" by Clifford D. Simak is a science fiction novel written during the early to mid-20th century. The story follows Oliver Meek, a timid middle-aged bookkeeper who, after many years of dreaming about adventure among the stars, embarks on an extraordinary journey into the Solar System. With a rocket ship and a desire for exploration, he finds himself caught up in unexpected peril and excitement, leading him to confront dangers he never anticipated. The narrative centers around Oliver Meek, who, disillusioned with his mundane life, seizes the opportunity to travel beyond Earth. Upon arriving at the chaotic Asteroid City, he accidentally reveals a surprising talent for gunfighting when he defends himself against a local thug. This unwitting act thrusts him into a role as a reluctant marshal, as the townspeople implore him to rid their city of the criminal element. Along the way, he encounters the mysterious Asteroid Prowler and discovers it has a connection to ancient alien inscriptions found nearby. Ultimately, his journey of self-discovery and heroism culminates in a blend of humor, danger, and an exploration of life's unpredictable nature, demonstrating that even the most unassuming individuals can rise to challenges with courage and ingenuity.
Message From Mars
"Message From Mars" by Clifford D. Simak is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores themes of isolation, survival, and the consequences of human ambition as Earthmen attempt to travel to Mars. The narrative draws attention to the dangers of space travel and the unforeseen repercussions of humanity's interactions with alien life. The plot centers around Scott Nixon, who embarks on a perilous journey to Mars after the prior Martian missions have ended in tragedy. Alongside him is stowaway Jimmy Baldwin, whose mind has been adversely affected by the experiences of space flight. Upon reaching Mars, Scott discovers evidence of other Earthmen who have been lost, including his brother Hugh, who has been surviving alone on the planet. The Martians remain elusive, with the only signs of their presence being mechanical bugs and the invasive Martian lilies that they sent to Earth. As the story unfolds, it reveals that the lilies and the bugs are part of a cunning invasion plan, designed to conquer Earth without direct confrontation. Ultimately, Scott is forced to confront the stark reality of this alien civilization, leading to a tragic conclusion as he tries to warn Earth of the impending danger.
The World That Couldn't Be
"The World That Couldn't Be" by Clifford D. Simak is a science fiction novella published in the mid-20th century. Set on the alien planet Layard, the story explores themes of survival, the relationship between humans and extraterrestrial life, and the complex dynamics of non-verbal communication in environments where traditional social structures do not exist. The narrative focuses on the challenges faced by the protagonist, Gavin Duncan, as he seeks to protect his crop from a dangerous creature known as the Cytha. In this tale, Duncan, a planter on Layard, becomes embroiled in a hunt for the elusive Cytha after it threatens his valuable "vua" crops, which are crucial for the health of the native inhabitants. As he pursues the creature, he is accompanied by a native tracker named Sipar, but their journey quickly turns perilous. Throughout the chase, Duncan confronts supernatural aspects of the Cytha, including its unexpected ability to communicate and manipulate its surroundings. Following a series of dangerous encounters and Sipar's tragic suicide, Duncan ultimately learns that the Cytha is not only an intelligent predator but also a maternal figure for the diverse fauna of Layard. The novella culminates in a precarious bargain between Duncan and the Cytha, where they agree to coexist while maintaining a delicate balance between their respective roles within the ecosystem.
The call from beyond
"The Call from Beyond" by Clifford D. Simak is a science fiction novel written during the early to mid-20th century. The story revolves around themes of exploration, human mutation, and the consequences of scientific discovery in a universe filled with both wonder and horror. Simak crafts a tale that questions the nature of humanity and what lies outside our understanding, blending elements of adventure with philosophical reflections on existence. The plot follows Frederick West, a man in search of a place where he can escape the constraints of Earth, leading him to Pluto's moon. Upon arrival, he encounters a derelict space hut inhabited by Walter J. Darling, a once-great scientist now consumed by alcoholism. From him, West learns of the mysterious inhabitants of Pluto and their experiments with controlled human mutation. The tale unfolds further as West becomes entangled with other characters, including the enigmatic scientist Louis Nevin and the telepathic entity known as the White Singer. Ultimately, West discovers the plan to reshape human civilization through the use of hormones developed in Pluto's cold laboratories. As he navigates betrayal and madness, he learns that the line between humanity and the grotesque is perilously thin. The narrative leads to a climactic confrontation that challenges the very fabric of human identity and existence.
Empire
"Empire" by Clifford D. Simak is a science fiction novel likely written in the early 1950s. The story introduces us to Spencer Chambers, a powerful figure in the Interplanetary Power company, who faces significant political tension in the Solar System, particularly around the Jovian elections. The narrative unfolds to reveal themes of economic dictatorship, power monopolization, and the consequences of unchecked ambition as Chambers views his opposition, particularly the imprisoned John Moore Mallory, as a threat to his plans for domination. The opening of the novel quickly establishes a tense atmosphere, portraying Chambers as a shrewd strategist who contemplates the political unrest stirred by Mallory’s calls for investigation into the company’s suspicious dealings. Chambers's interactions with his associates reveal his cold, calculating nature and the ruthless measures he is willing to employ to maintain control, including silencing dissenters like Mallory. Simak also introduces intriguing scientific elements through characters like Russell Page and Gregory Manning, hinting at innovations that may challenge the established power dynamics. Overall, the beginning sets a stage ripe with intrigue and action, suggesting a story that intertwines personal ambition with broader themes of freedom and technological advancement.
Second Childhood
"Second Childhood" by Clifford D. Simak is a science fiction novel likely written in the early to mid-20th century. The narrative explores the complex notion of immortality and the psychological burdens it brings, questioning what it truly means to live a fulfilling life when death is no longer an option. The book delves into themes of memory, identity, and the innate desire for innocence, encapsulated in the experiences of its protagonist. The story centers around Andrew Young, a man who has lived for nearly six thousand years due to a technological breakthrough that grants immortality. However, instead of the joy and fulfillment traditionally associated with such an existence, Young finds himself grappling with profound loneliness and disillusionment, having lost all meaningful connections as his friends and loved ones have passed away. In a desperate attempt to escape the weight of his long memories and rekindle the joy of childhood, Young petitions a commission for the right to end his life. Yet, rather than succumb to despair, he embarks on a journey to recreate the wonder of his early years by building a life-sized, childlike world. Through ingenious means, including a designed android meant to serve as a nurturing figure, Young realizes a path back to the simplicity and innocence of childhood, ultimately seeking to reclaim his lost happiness. The novel thoughtfully examines the human experience in the context of prolonged existence, illustrating the profound effects of time on memory and emotion.
Mr. Meek Plays Polo
"Mr. Meek Plays Polo" by Clifford D. Simak is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Oliver Meek, an unassuming bookkeeper who finds himself caught in a series of surreal events involving space, eccentric characters, and an unusual game of polo. The narrative explores themes of identity, the unpredictable nature of life in space, and the quest for meaning in a chaotic universe. In this engaging tale, Meek is reluctantly thrust into a space polo match that carries the weight of a longstanding feud between rival factions known as the "ring rats." As he navigates the chaos of the game, Meek must contend with the absurdity of his situation, especially as he becomes the unwitting coach of a team filled with colorful characters. The narrative unfolds with moments of humor, tension, and unexpected revelations, particularly concerning the mysterious "educated bugs" that inhabit the rock where Meek discovers he can study mathematical equations through games the bugs play. Ultimately, Meek's journey becomes one of self-discovery, as he transforms from a meek bookkeeper into an unexpected hero, showcasing the unpredictability of life and the hidden depths within all individuals.
The Street That Wasn't There
"The Street That Wasn't There" by Clifford D. Simak and Carl Jacobi is a speculative fiction novella written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around an eccentric recluse, Mr. Jonathon Chambers, who finds himself ensconced in a dramatically shifting reality—where familiar places and objects begin to inexplicably vanish. The narrative wrestles with themes of perception, reality, and the power of collective consciousness as it explores the boundaries of existence and the fragility of the human-made world. In the novella, Mr. Chambers adheres to a strict routine in his solitary life, walking the same streets every evening. However, his predictable existence is shattered when he discovers that parts of his familiar neighborhood, including the confectionery he frequents, have mysteriously disappeared. As he grapples with the implications of this phenomenon, he reflects on a book he had written decades earlier, positing that humanity's collective minds shape reality. As a plague decimates the population, the world around him begins to dissolve into a gray nothingness, forcing Mr. Chambers to confront the grim possibility that the threads holding his reality together are fraying. Ultimately, he finds himself in a race against time to retain his sense of self and the life he has known, facing the slowly encroaching void alone.
Hellhounds of the Cosmos
"Hellhounds of the Cosmos" by Clifford D. Simak is a science fiction novella published in the early 20th century. The story revolves around an apocalyptic scenario where Earth faces an invasion from mysterious creatures referred to as the "Horrors." These beings, believed to be fourth-dimensional entities, wreak havoc across the globe, causing widespread panic and devastation as humanity struggles to understand and fight back against them. The narrative follows Dr. Silas White, a scientist who believes he has developed a method to counter the Horrors by sending brave men into the fourth dimension to confront them directly. The main character, reporter Henry Woods, becomes part of this bold mission. As they and ninety-eight other men are transformed into beings of the fourth dimension, they grapple with their new forms and the reality of their existence. The climax of the tale unfolds in a titanic battle between their group and the Horrors, culminating in a struggle that tests their newfound identities and ultimately leads to the defeat of the enemy. Through its imaginative portrayal of dimensions and life forms, the story explores themes of survival, evolution, and the infinite mysteries of the cosmos.
Project Mastodon
"Project Mastodon" by Clifford D. Simak is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century. The story deals with themes of time travel and human ambition, exploring the consequences of seeking to establish a new nation in an ancient world populated by prehistoric creatures. It follows a group of men navigating the political landscape of their time while grappling with the environmental and social challenges of living in the Pleistocene era. The narrative centers around Wesley Adams, ex-ambassador Chuck Hudson, and Secretary of State John Cooper, who venture back in time using a time machine and establish a new nation called Mastodonia in a distant past filled with mammoths and saber-tooths. As they attempt to gain recognition for their new country, they face various obstacles, including conflicts with government officials back in their own time. The trio struggles with the logistics of survival and grapples with their hopes and dreams of returning home, ultimately inducing questions about purpose and legacy as they navigate a primitive landscape. The story highlights the themes of human ingenuity, the quest for national identity, and the complexities of coexistence in an unforgiving environment.