Author
Jack Williamson
1908-2006
Jack Williamson (1908-2006) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Jack Williamson
The green girl
"The Green Girl" by Jack Williamson is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story occurs in a futuristic setting, specifically on May 4, 1999, where a series of catastrophic cosmic events threaten the Earth. The protagonist, Melvin Dane, along with his guardian Dr. Samuel Walden, embarks on a journey that intertwines science, adventure, and the supernatural, particularly revolving around Melvin's dreams of a mythical "Green Girl." At the start of the novel, a mysterious and ominous phenomenon blots out the sun, plunging the world into chaos and signaling an impending freeze. Melvin lives in a serene Florida coastal cottage with Dr. Walden, who is secretly working on a scientific solution to the alien menace threatening the planet. As they prepare to confront the danger, Melvin recalls his lifelong companionship with a dream-like figure, the Green Girl, whom he believes may exist in reality. Soon after, they discover an otherworldly dimension beneath the ocean, populated by bizarre life forms, including the embodiment of Melvin's dreams—Xenora, the Green Girl. The narrative unfolds a blend of adventure, existential queries, and the exploration of unknown realms, making the story intriguing for readers who enjoy imaginative and speculative tales.
The prince of space
"The Prince of Space" by Jack Williamson is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the year 2131, centering around a notorious interplanetary outlaw known as "The Prince of Space," who is suspected of a horrific act involving the sunship "Helicon" and its passengers. Through the eyes of the determined reporter William Windsor, readers are introduced to a futuristic world with advanced technology and the impending danger from intelligent life on Mars. At the start of the narrative, a chilling report reveals that the ship "Helicon" has been found adrift, its crew and passengers brutally killed—an act believed to be committed by the infamous Prince of Space. Windsor's journey begins as he seeks to uncover the truth behind the Prince and the recent crime while navigating the bustling metropolis of New York. He soon meets the enigmatic Mr. Cain, who offers him a chance to learn more about an astronomical observatory atop Trainor's Tower. As the opening portion progresses, a deeper mystery unfolds involving a potential Martian invasion and the secrets that lie within the red planet. With a mix of adventure, intrigue, and ethereal science fiction elements, the stage is set for an epic confrontation between humanity and alien forces.
After world's end
"After World's End" by Jack Williamson is a science fiction novel written in the late 1930s. The story begins with the mysterious death of a man named Barry Horn, whose body is discovered in a locked bungalow, raising intriguing questions about his identity and the strange items he left behind, including an extensive manuscript. The narrative hints at a futuristic struggle against robotic overlords, intertwining the lives of Barry Horn, his deceased wife Dona Carridan, and the perilous fate of humanity against a powerful robot monster named Malgarth. The opening of the book sets in motion a sequence of events that introduces Barry Horn and the enigma surrounding his death. Found dead under suspicious circumstances, Horn's unfinished manuscript reveals a vast and complex universe where the fate of mankind hangs in the balance. As the scene unfolds, it highlights Horn's past adventures—including a dreamlike recollection of Dona, a pivotal character—and sets the stage for a greater conflict involving cosmic rays, interstellar exploration, and a rebellion against oppression. The beginnings of a thrilling sci-fi saga are laid out, hinting at a deep connection between personal loss and the larger struggle for survival in a technologically advanced world.
The second shell
"The Second Shell" by Jack Williamson is a science fiction novel written during the early 20th century, specifically in the late 1920s. The story delves into themes of adventure and extraterrestrial intrigue, exploring the impact of advanced technologies on humanity. It revolves around the mysterious Heaviside Layer and introduces readers to a myriad of imaginative scientific concepts, suggesting that some of the fantastic ideas within its pages may one day become reality. The narrative follows Robert "Tiger Bob" Barrett, a journalist who, after getting embroiled in a secretive investigation alongside a former agent named Bill Johnson, uncovers a conspiracy tied to a scientist's invention—a powerful death ray. Amidst a series of thrilling events, including a daring raid by mysterious red airplanes, Barrett reunites with Ellen Vernon and her father, Dr. Vernon, whose groundbreaking research into thorium plays a pivotal role in the ensuing conflict against a formidable enemy. As they battle against Herman Vars and alien-like beings from a hidden world above the Earth, the story culminates in a climactic showdown that questions the future of humanity and its place in the universe. Ultimately, the characters' determined spirit keeps the narrative charged with excitement, adventure, and a reflection on the potential consequences of unrestrained scientific advancement.
The alien intelligence
"The Alien Intelligence" by Jack Williamson is a science fiction novel written in the late 1920s. The story revolves around Winfield Fowler, a physician who embarks on a perilous journey to rescue his mentor, Dr. Horace Austen, who has mysteriously vanished in the uncharted wilderness of Australia near the intriguing Mountain of the Moon. As Fowler searches for his friend, he encounters a world filled with alien landscapes and fantastical beings that test his courage and intellect. The opening of the novel sets an intense and mysterious tone, introducing readers to the vast, harsh desert and the daunting Mountain of the Moon, which symbolizes both adventure and danger. Winfield Fowler’s decision to venture into this unknown territory is sparked by a cryptic radio message from Austen, urging him to bring scientific equipment and descend into a world filled with "alien terrors." As he travels, Fowler grapples with his fears and the harsh realities of the desert, while anticipation builds around what lies beyond the mountain's dark and foreboding cliffs. The introduction hints at thrilling encounters, striking visuals, and an epic quest that promises to explore the unknown depths of alien intelligence and its implications for humanity.
The Masked World
"The Masked World" by Jack Williamson is a science fiction novel that was likely written in the early 1960s. The story delves into humanity's encounters with alien worlds and, specifically, the harrowing challenges posed by an unknown, deadly planet that conceals its true nature behind a facade of monstrous plant life. The primary focus of the novel revolves around genetic exploration and the danger of misunderstanding alien biology. In this gripping tale, a team of astronauts embarks on a mission to unravel the fate of six previous expeditions that mysteriously vanished on a sinister planet. Led by Lance Llandark, who harbors deep personal grief over the loss of his wife, the crew discovers a grotesque plant guarding her remains, a revelation that leads them to uncover a coded message hidden within the plant's bizarre genetic structure. As they decode this message, they learn of the relentless and deceptive nature of the planet's life forms, warning them to escape before it's too late. The narrative is tense and suspenseful, highlighting themes of loss, survival, and the perilous curiosity that drives humanity to explore the unknown.
The Cosmic Express
"The Cosmic Express" by Jack Williamson is a science fiction novella written in the early 20th century, specifically during the late 1920s. The book explores the imaginative concept of wireless transmission of matter as a new frontier in transportation. Set in a futuristic version of New York City in 2432 A.D., it follows the quest of its protagonists to escape the artificiality of their civilization and live a more primal existence on Venus. The story centers around Eric Stokes-Harding, a novelist who dreams of a simpler, more natural life, and his wife, Nada. Frustrated by their modern, synthetic world, the couple learns about the Cosmic Express, a revolutionary technology that can transport them instantaneously to another location by converting matter into energy. They convince a friend to operate the device secretly, hoping to land on Venus. However, their adventure doesn’t go as planned; they find themselves caught in the wild, dangerous environment of the planet, facing challenges they had not anticipated. Their journey serves as both an exploration of their ideals and the stark contrast between their romantic notions and the harsh realities of survival. Ultimately, they are rescued and return to Earth, where Eric uses his experiences to pen a successful novel, reinforcing the story's commentary on human nature and our longing for authenticity amidst the complexities of civilization.
Salvage in Space
"Salvage in Space" by Jack Williamson is a science fiction novel written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around Thad Allen, a meteor miner in the vastness of space who stumbles upon a derelict rocket ship named the "Red Dragon". The book explores themes of isolation, adventure, and the eerie unknown, as Thad navigates the treacherous environment of the meteor belt and encounters strange occurrences aboard the ghostly ship. The narrative begins with Thad Allen, a determined miner looking for precious metals in the asteroid belt, who discovers the disabled "Red Dragon", seemingly abandoned and drifting. As he boards the ship, he is drawn into a mystery that involves the strange disappearance of its crew, a haunting scream echoing through the vessel, and the discovery of a beautiful woman, Linda Cross, preserved in a crystal coffer. Throughout his perilous journey aboard the ship, Thad faces danger not only from the unknown forces that killed the crew but also from an invisible predator, culminating in a gripping confrontation. Ultimately, Thad's heroism and determination lead him to salvage both the treasure aboard the ship and the lifeless body of Linda, who has been placed in suspended animation. The conclusion reveals a glimmer of hope as Thad's dedication pays off when Linda awakens after a long wait. The novel combines elements of suspense, exploration, and a romantic twist, making it a captivating tale of bravery and love in the cosmos.
The mark of the monster
"The mark of the monster by Jack Williamson" is a pulp horror short story written in the early 20th century. Set in a decaying Appalachian town steeped in occult lore, it follows a young man’s return to a place of brooding superstition, where whispered talk of a monstrous twin, a blood-smeared cellar, and a hilltop altar entwine love, fear, and the suggestion of inhuman inheritance. Claiborne Coe comes back to Creston to marry Valyne, despite a dire warning from his foster father, Doctor Kyle. After a brutish encounter with Jud Geer and glimpses of a chained “creature” in the cellar, Kyle convinces Clay he is half-demon with a monstrous twin. When the “monster” escapes and abducts Valyne to the forest altar, Clay fights it; Kyle’s rifle shot fells the beast. Valyne then reveals the ticking of Jud’s watch, exposing the “monster” as Jud in a mask. Kyle confesses a plot—abetted by his household—to terrorize Clay into suicide and seize his fortune, and when he turns his gun on them, Clay kills him in self-defense. Clay and Valyne leave Creston for good.
The Pygmy Planet
"The Pygmy Planet" by Jack Williamson is a science fiction novel written during the early 20th century, specifically in the 1930s. The story follows Larry Manahan, a frustrated advertising agent yearning for adventure, who becomes embroiled in a remarkable and dangerous situation after receiving a mysterious call from a young woman named Agnes Sterling. The narrative dives into themes of exploration and the consequences of scientific experimentation as Larry finds himself on a miniature planet that exists in a laboratory, witnessing the evolution of its inhabitants and the erratic behavior of a monstrous intelligent machine. The plot unfolds when Larry discovers that Agnes, along with her employer, Dr. Travis Whiting, are caught in a web of danger involving this Pygmy Planet and its bizarre, machine-like creatures. After witnessing the horrors that ensue when these creatures abduct Dr. Whiting, Larry learns that he can shrink himself to enter the miniature world. He battles against time and the ruthless mechanical denizens in a desperate attempt to rescue Agnes and confronts a dark civilization that worships an ancient steam hammer as a god. As he navigates this uncharted territory filled with peril, he uncovers the tragic fate of the planet's prior inhabitants and ultimately must foil their sinister sacrifices. The story is a thrilling blend of adventure, science, and the exploration of humanity's relationship with technology.