Author
Larry Sternig
1908-1999
Larry Sternig (1908-1999) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Larry Sternig
Venusian Invader
"Venusian Invader" by Larry Sternig is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century, specifically published in a 1945 issue of Planet Stories. The book centers around a tense narrative involving interplanetary pirates, particularly focusing on the character Tar Norn, a notorious Venusian pirate who kidnaps the daughter of the Director of Comprotown, Leah Barrow. The story explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the complexities of morality in the face of personal relationships. The plot unfolds as Tar Norn crash-lands a pirate ship on Callisto and seizes Leah Barrow as a hostage, demanding a fast spaceship in exchange for her life. As Mart Wells, a rocketport dispatcher, and Director Barrow coordinate a desperate search to save her, they face moral dilemmas about releasing a dangerous criminal versus risking the life of Leah. Tension escalates as Mart realizes that Tar Norn's threat may not involve a traditional time bomb but rather a deadly plan taking advantage of the scheduled operations of the freighters. The climax leads to an unexpected resolution where Mart's quick thinking prevents a tragedy and ultimately leads to Leah’s rescue, showcasing not just action but also elements of human connection and responsibility.
Total Recall
"Total Recall" by Larry Sternig is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The narrative unfolds in a futuristic setting where an impending alien invasion threatens the stability of the Solar System. The plot centers on a scientist who must recover the formula for a crucial chemical compound lost in his memory, which is key to thwarting this existential threat. The story follows Roger Kay, who is tasked with assisting scientist Corvo North, whose groundbreaking discovery—a catalyst that can disrupt explosives—is crucial for defending against an invading fleet. Faced with a tight deadline, Roger and Corvo attempt to use a machine that can access and restore lost memories, specifically recalling the moment when Corvo first documented the formula. Amidst intense personal and professional strains, and with the help of Corvo's daughter, Ann, they race against time to secure humanity's survival. Ultimately, through clever planning, Roger prevents Corvo from destroying the formula once again and successfully saves the day, ensuring the invaders are stopped before they can begin their assault.
Breath of Beelzebub
"Breath of Beelzebub" by Larry Sternig is a science fiction narrative published in the mid-20th century, specifically in the post-World War II era. The story revolves around a strange powerful substance discovered on a destroyed planetoid that leads to wild and unexpected effects when consumed. It explores themes of intoxication, desire, and the consequences of tampering with the unknown. The plot follows Bill Dineen, the secretary to a liquor magnate named Fleming Ames, after he encounters a timid man named Slane O'Graeme, who presents a vial of a mysterious blue liquid dubbed "Breath of Beelzebub." Upon testing it, Dineen discovers that the substance provides a euphoric high that can cause individuals to swap personalities when mixed with water, leading to chaos during a dinner party with Ames and his guests. As the strange effects unfold with characters swapping bodies, humorous situations arise, including flirtations and confusions among the guests. Ultimately, the consequences of this experimentation lead to a newfound romance for Dineen and a surprising twist in his career trajectory. Through its light-hearted and humorous lens, the book delves into the implications of indulgence and desire in an interplanetary context.