Author
R. R. (Russell Robert) Winterbotham
1904-1971
R. R. (Russell Robert) Winterbotham (1904-1971) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by R. R. (Russell Robert) Winterbotham
The red planet : $b a science fiction novel
"The Red Planet" by Russ Winterbotham is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around a manned mission to Mars, exploring themes of jealousy, ambition, and the complexities of human relationships set against the backdrop of space travel. Key characters include Bill Drake, Gail Loring, and Dr. Lewis Spartan, with tension arising from Spartan's desire for power and revenge intertwined with the crew's mission. At the start of the novel, Bill Drake is anxious about Operation Jehad, the first manned flight to Mars, particularly concerning their last astronaut candidate, Willy Zinder. As the story unfolds, it's revealed that Gail Loring, who has chosen Drake as her husband for the sake of the mission, unknowingly sets off a chain of events that leads to tragedy. Willy experiences a severe crisis during his final testing phase, and despite attempts to regain control, he inadvertently triggers an early re-entry, resulting in a disaster that could jeopardize the entire Mars project. The opening sets up a compelling mix of technical challenges, personal stakes, and the dramatic tension that will characterize the crew's journey to the Red Planet.
Equation for Time
"Equation for Time" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction novel written in the early 21st century. Set in a future where horses have become extinct and time travel is theoretically possible, the story follows Dr. Fred Huckins, a surgeon who becomes embroiled in a plot involving the brilliant physicist Trella Mayo and the menacing Gustav Keeshwar. The novel explores themes of time, science, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding technological advancements. The narrative begins when Huckins encounters Keeshwar, who offers him a million dollars to perform a dangerous operation on Trella Mayo, a scientist on the verge of a groundbreaking locomotion invention. As threats against her life emerge, Huckins learns about Trella's creation of a machine called the "space-time translator," designed to transport objects through time and space. When an attempt on Trella's life results in her becoming physically split between two points in space-time, Huckins races against time to reunite her halves using mathematical principles of time travel. The story culminates in their successful reunion and poses philosophical questions about time and existence, presenting a blend of intrigue, romance, and speculative science.
Problem Planet
"Problem Planet" by Russ Winterbotham is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around two characters, a space pilot named Dave Camptain and a senator, Clive Littlebrook, who find themselves marooned on an uninhabited planet following a spacewreck. This unlikely duo must navigate their survival while grappling with political dynamics and the emergence of a mysterious woman named Rosemary, who adds complexity to their situation with her claim to the land and her unique perspective on governance. The narrative unfolds as Dave and Clive attempt to establish a functioning society on the planet, which they humorously name "Problem Planet," dominated by Clive's political maneuvering and Dave's practical survival instincts. Their plans are thrown into chaos upon encountering Rosemary, who has been living on the planet alone since childhood, forging her path of independence. As they navigate issues of power, survival, and the dynamics between genders, the characters confront their assumptions about civilization, relationships, and what it means to govern. Ultimately, the story culminates in a dilemma of choice and compromise, revealing deeper insights into human nature and social structures, while the characters come to terms with their individual desires and relationships.
Message from Venus
"Message from Venus" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds on the planet Venus during a desperate battle between humans and Venusians, focusing on the struggle for survival and the determination to send a critical message back to Earth. The narrative highlights themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the perilous nature of space exploration. The plot centers on Captain Paul Bonnet and Lieutenant Bill Riley, who are stationed at Outpost 53 facing a relentless assault from hostile Venusians. After suffering heavy casualties and realizing that reinforcements will take months to arrive, they decide to launch a lifeboat toward Earth, hoping to deliver an urgent plea for help. As they travel through space, they formulate a risky plan to land near a populated area in the ocean to drop their message. The story culminates in a dramatic and tense atmospheric re-entry, where they successfully land near San Francisco. Their bravery ensures that the message is delivered, highlighting the human spirit's unyielding resolve even in the face of overwhelming odds.
The Thought-Men of Mercury
"The Thought-Men of Mercury" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction short story published during the early 20th century, likely in the 1940s. The narrative unfolds on the planet Mercury, where two Earthmen, Terry Hall and Cappy Upjohn, encounter a telepathic alien species that possesses the ability to read and influence thoughts. The story delves into themes of fear, intelligence, and the power dynamics between species. As the Earthmen navigate the twilight landscape of Mercury, they face the reality of captivity by the alien beings, known as Mercurians, led by the creature Chomby. Terry's initial fear contrasts with Cappy's bravado, revealing their differing approaches to danger and survival. The two humans soon realize that the Mercurians are not only intellectually advanced but also desire to learn about the concept of fear and its role in human society. The tension escalates as they attempt to escape, ultimately leading to a confrontation with Chomby that reveals a critical detail about the flourobeam gun's safety catch, allowing them to reclaim their freedom. The story concludes with a reflection on bravery, fear, and the complexities of interspecies interactions.
The Monster That Threatened the Universe
"The Monster That Threatened the Universe" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction novella published in the early 1940s. The narrative explores themes surrounding the nature of progress and individuality through the confrontation between humanity and a colossal, monstrous creature named Limio that inhabits a dying star in a black hole. As the story unfolds, it reflects on the implications of progress, competition, and existence within the universe. The book follows Marmaduke Karns, a man facing execution due to his act of individualism in a world where a mind-controlling gland extract has eradicated criminality and individuality. After being instructed to confront Limio, who threatens space navigation and absorbs life forms, Marmaduke embarks on a dangerous mission accompanied by Commander General Adstrom and his daughter, Sandra. Through a series of tense encounters and philosophical discussions with Limio, Karns realizes that the antidote to the extract he possesses represents not just survival, but a return to individuality and progress. As he introduces chaos into Limio's mind—turning the creature into multiple intelligences—he ultimately challenges the concept of progress, highlighting the importance of diversity and conflict in fostering it. The story concludes with a transformative effect on both the human race and Limio as they begin to navigate their existential growths and conflicts.
Three Spacemen Left to Die!
"Three Spacemen Left to Die!" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book explores the dire circumstances faced by three astronauts in a space ship infected by a deadly contagion known as the "Quinnies." As they confront the impending threat of death, the story delves into themes of survival, sacrifice, and the quest for life in the cosmos. The narrative centers around Commander Al Andrews, his young companion Oakey Matthews, and their ailing friend Joe, who is battling the final stages of the Quinnies. As the crew grapples with the reality of their situation, tensions escalate when Al feels compelled to take drastic measures to prevent them from spreading the disease to a new planet. The conflict arises between Al's determination to preserve life, even at the cost of their own, and Oakey’s struggle to find a reason to carry on. Ultimately, as Al succumbs to the disease himself, he is faced with the notion that their individual lives may be less significant than the survival of their race. The poignant conclusion highlights the sacrifice made in the name of life, merging the personal with the universal as they approach their fateful landing.
Genesis!
"Genesis!" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction novella written during the early 1940s, appearing originally in "Planet Stories" in the summer of 1941. The story presents a speculative exploration of the nature of life and evolution, set against the backdrop of space travel and extraterrestrial fantasy. The narrative focuses on the character of Harry Renzu, a scientist determined to create a new form of life on Venus, delving into themes of domination, gratitude, and the ethics of scientific experimentation. The plot follows Captain Vic Arlen and his crew, including the enigmatic Venusian Gheal, as they embark on an expedition to Venus with Renzu, who seeks to mold life from the planet's protoplasm. Conflict arises between Renzu's cruel treatment of Gheal and Arlen's efforts to treat him humanely. The discovery of a brutal scheme by Renzu—to use the bones of his crew members to perfect his protoplasmic creations—leads to a violent confrontation between the scientist and his own monstrous creations. As Arlen and engineer McFerson navigate this alien world, they grapple with the consequences of playing god, successfully escaping Renzu's insanity thanks to Gheal's unexpected loyalty. The story ultimately challenges the notion of what it means to be truly alive and the moral implications of scientific ambition.
A Little Knowledge
"A Little Knowledge" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction short story published in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores themes of interplanetary life and the inherent dangers of human ambition, as an alien named Olbu visits Earth to assess whether humanity poses a threat to the galaxy. The story reflects the burgeoning interest in space exploration and societal introspection prevalent during this time. The plot centers around a telecast featuring Olbu, the alien ambassador from the planet Xvik, and Earth scientists Dr. Bruber and broadcaster Ralph Rodkey. As Olbu shares his observations about humanity, he observes that Earthmen are ambitious and dangerous — an assessment that sparks discussions about the future of mankind. Through moments of humor and tension, Olbu reveals his planet's view of Earthlings and the possibility that they may need to be eliminated for the safety of the universe. However, the story takes a twist when Dr. Bruber informs Olbu that his home star has gone supernova, leaving the alien stranded on Earth. Ultimately, the story comments on the cyclical patterns of ambition and destruction inherent in human nature and hints that the fate Olbu feared for humanity may be the one his own kind has already faced.
A Matter of Ethics
"A Matter of Ethics" by Russ Winterbotham is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Homer, a bachelor living in Faderfield, who is confronted with an unexpected visit from a mysterious girl claiming to be from the Pleiades star cluster. Central to the plot is the ethical dilemma Homer faces as he contemplates a lucrative job offer and navigates the social customs that govern human interactions. The narrative follows Homer as he grapples with his identity, career aspirations, and the unconventional entrance of Qalith, the alien girl. Intrigued by her beauty yet overwhelmed by the implications of her presence, Homer finds himself torn between the stability of his teaching position and the allure of a wealthy, yet morally questionable, job offer. As the story unfolds, the dynamic between Homer and Qalith reveals deeper questions about societal norms, ownership, and the nature of happiness. Ultimately, Homer evaluates his life choices against the backdrop of a bizarre encounter, leading to an unexpected resolution where he considers a new life on Planet 12 alongside Qalith.
The thought-feeders
"The Thought-Feeders" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction novella written in the early 1940s. The narrative follows two aviators, Dr. Kempster Duerkes and Captain Lewis Hawes, who encounter an extraordinary phenomenon during a high-altitude flight. The book explores themes of consciousness, evolution, and the existence of higher forms of life in the stratosphere that consume thoughts as sustenance. In the story, Dr. Duerkes and Captain Hawes find themselves unexpectedly trapped in a greenish cloud after their airplane experiences a mechanical failure. Once engulfed by the cloud, they lose their sensory perceptions and undergo a transformation that allows them to communicate with the cloud beings, known as the Green Clouds. These entities reveal that their existence relies on feeding off the thoughts of lower beings, like humans. As the two men adapt to this new realm, they grapple with the Green Clouds' peculiar lifestyle, which lacks tangible labor and relies solely on mental creation. Fascinated yet bewildered, Hawes and Duerkes ponder their role in this bizarre society, ultimately attempting to escape and return to Earth. The story culminates in a dramatic departure as they build a new airplane from their thoughts, leaving behind the unusual and thought-driven existence of the Green Clouds.
Oridin's Formula
"Oridin's Formula" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction story written in the early 1940s. The narrative explores themes of ambition, power, and the complexity of human desires as it unfolds on the planetoid Azair. The primary focus is on a mathematical equation that has the potential to grant its possessor the ability to control the universe. The story centers around Oridin, a recluse who possesses a secret formula related to certainty in success, which a space pirate named Caddo seeks in order to conquer Earth and thus rule the universe. Their interaction develops into a psychological clash, as Caddo initially threatens Oridin but soon finds himself captivated by the promise of the formula. As Caddo becomes increasingly obsessed with the notion of achieving absolute power through the mathematical principles laid out by Oridin, he loses his grip on reality, ultimately becoming a mere husk of his former self. The tale concludes with Oridin returning to his solitude, highlighting the perils of unrestrained ambition while illustrating the enigmatic relationship between knowledge, power, and personal fulfillment.
Dead Man's Planet
"Dead Man's Planet" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction novel written during the early 1940s. The book explores the theme of isolation, alien life forms, and the consequences of scientific experiments gone awry on a barren asteroid. The storyline revolves around the unexpected discovery of a human-like figure on an asteroid that initially appears lifeless, leading to a deeper investigation into the unique ecology and the tragic history of its sole inhabitant. The plot follows Mick Conner and Alf Rankin, two astronauts who land on the asteroid for repairs and stumble upon the strange plant life and the mysterious Ghor, who claims to have been born and raised on the asteroid. As they interact with Ghor, they learn of the biochemistry that allows the plant life to regenerate and the dark legacy of Ghor's father, who had tried to manipulate these alien species. Tensions rise as the astronauts face dangers from the aggressive plant life, culminating in Ghor's sacrifice to protect them, revealing that he is more than just a human, but a hybrid being created from plant life. This poignant ending explores themes of identity, sacrifice, and the blurred lines between man and nature.
Lonesome Hearts
"Lonesome Hearts" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction novella written during the mid-20th century, specifically in the 1950s. The story explores themes of love, existence, and the transition between life forms on a different planet, telling the tale of an alien being's journey in search of his beloved. Through a blend of whimsical imagination and reflective philosophy, it delves into the complex nature of relationships and identity in a cosmic context. The narrative follows Yljm, an alien character whose life intertwines with Mjly, a celestial being. As their world faces ecological collapse, Mjly sets out to another planet, Earth, which holds promise and sustenance. Following a long absence, Yljm resolves to find her, only to discover that Mjly has transformed into microbial life, signifying the beginnings of animal life on Earth. The story concludes with Yljm resigning to a lonesome existence while reflecting on the nature of love and life, marking a poignant commentary on the cyclical nature of existence and the loneliness inherent in individuality.
The Whispering Spheres
"The Whispering Spheres" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction novel likely written during the early 1940s. This gripping tale unfolds in a world grappling with an alien life-form that emerges in the form of mysterious, fiery spheres, threatening humanity with annihilation. The narrative weaves themes of survival, fear, and the concept of primary objectives, exploring the complexities of life and death against the backdrop of external alien forces. The story centers around Captain Ted Taylor, a former scientist turned military officer, who encounters a series of terrifying events at a weapons factory. After a spy named Hank Norden attempts to detonate the facility, terrifying orange spheres—seemingly alive and armed with deadly energy bolts—begin to wreak havoc. As Taylor and his team navigate the chaos, they discover the spheres' ability to kill not only through physical means but also through emotional responses like fear and frustration. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes a race against time to understand the nature of the spheres and ultimately turn the tables on these alien beings. With themes of sacrifice, betrayal, and human resilience, "The Whispering Spheres" poses profound questions about survival, morality, and the struggle between humanity and its primal fears.
The Minus Woman
"The Minus Woman" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The book explores themes of alternate realities and the nature of existence through an intriguing plot involving an asteroid that reveals unexpected phenomena. It raises questions about negative matter and the possibility of interactions between dimensions that are not perceived in conventional physical terms. The story follows two astronauts, Jay Hayling and Red Brewer, as they conduct experiments on a seemingly lifeless asteroid, 57GM, which exhibits bizarre behavior that defies known physical laws. While investigating strange fluctuations in mass and the malfunctioning of their laboratory scales, they encounter a mysterious female figure, referred to as the "minus woman." As they unravel the enigma of their surroundings, they discover that their realities are intertwined with a negative dimension, leading to a dramatic climax that culminates in the transformation and demise of one of the characters. Through this fascinating narrative, Winterbotham expertly blends scientific curiosity with human elements, challenging readers to ponder the implications of parallel dimensions and the fundamental nature of reality.