Author
Robert F. Young
1915-1986
Robert F. Young (1915-1986) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Robert F. Young
Sweet Tooth
"Sweet Tooth" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction short story published in the early 1960s. The narrative revolves around the absurdity and humor that derive from two alien monsters that consume automobiles, causing havoc in a small town as they adapt to Earth's metal-based environment. The plot explores themes of human curiosity and adaptability in the face of bizarre extraterrestrial encounters. The story follows Dexter Foote, a newspaper reporter assigned to cover a fallen star, who finds himself in the ridiculous situation of witnessing the destruction of his convertible by two massive, metallic creatures that devour cars. As Dexter investigates further, he teams up with the local sheriff and army personnel to understand the nature of these "Vehicle-Eating Monsters" (VEMs). Through a series of comedic events, including absurd military strategies and the absurdity of the aliens' gluttonous behavior, Dexter formulates a plan to capture the creatures, leading to unexpected revelations about their origins and motivations. The story mixes elements of satire, adventure, and humor to comment on human perceptions of alien life and the absurdity of materialism.
The deep space scrolls
"The Deep Space Scrolls" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction novella written in the early 1960s. The book explores profound themes surrounding mythology, humanity's place in the cosmos, and the nature of divinity through the lens of a fictional Senate hearing about a significant space mission. The story questions our understanding of God and human history, proposing that there may be a deeper connection between humanity and extraterrestrial origins. In the narrative, Lieutenant Colonel Willard S. Greaves recounts his experience aboard the spacecraft Camaraderie 17, during which he and his commander encounter a mysterious vessel designated as Spaceship X. After boarding this abandoned craft, Greaves discovers artifacts, including scrolls and a photograph suggesting a connection to ancient religious narratives, notably the biblical story of Noah's Ark. As he presents his findings to the Senate, the dialogue uncovers the implications of this discovery on human spirituality and the possibility of divine origins beyond Earth. The book culminates in a transformative realization, leading the characters to reconsider their understanding of God and humanity's relationship with the universe.
The Girl in His Mind
"The Girl in His Mind" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The book explores the intricacies of the human mind as it follows Nathan Blake, a psycheye, who navigates the peculiar landscape of his own thoughts and memories. The story delves into themes of self-discovery, guilt, and the duality of human nature. In the narrative, Nathan Blake finds himself pursuing a fugitive named Sabrina York within the confines of his own mind, which becomes a battleground for his memories and alter egos. As he traverses various memories that represent his past relationships, especially with a girl named Deirdre Eldoria, he confronts deeply buried emotions and the consequences of his actions. The storyline stitches together Blake's struggles to reconcile his desires and moral compass while evading haunting manifestations of his past, represented by the Erinyes, who serve as personifications of his guilt. Ultimately, through these surreal encounters, Blake is forced to confront both his innermost fears and the reality of his genuine feelings for Deirdre.
Bruggil's bride
"Bruggil's Bride" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. Set in a distant future, the story focuses on the journey of Isolde, an android created to perform opera, who undergoes a transformation from a performer to a servant and ultimately to a figure of worship. The book explores themes of identity, worth, and the complexities of existence in a technologically advanced society. The narrative follows Isolde through various ownerships, beginning with her abduction from a storage facility, where she is repurposed from an operatic android to a servant. Initially purchased by a shrewd trader, her journey takes her to different planets, where she encounters a range of characters, including a mission-driven reverend and a labor recruiter. Eventually, she is mistaken for a goddess by indigenous tribes, leading to her reign as "Bruggil’s Bride." Despite the twists and turns of control and identity, Isolde’s true essence as an artist remains central, culminating in her final act of artistry. As her existence draws to a close, she embodies beauty and tragedy, reflecting on the poignant themes of love and loss, resonating deeply through the operatic echoes of her being.
The Girls from Fieu Dayol
"The Girls from Fieu Dayol" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction novella written in the early 1960s. The story centers around Herbert Quidley, an aspiring writer with a particular interest in romance, who becomes entangled in a mystery involving a series of cryptic messages hidden in an obscure literary tome. His pursuit of the alluring Kay Smith reveals surprising connections to an interstellar society and the concept of conscription for marriage. In this intriguing narrative, Quidley navigates the complexities of attraction, deception, and unexpected intergalactic obligations as he follows Kay's clues. The plot thickens with each hidden message, leading Quidley to discover that Kay and her friends are from a distant planet, Fieu Dayol, where a severe gender imbalance compels them to seek Earth men as potential mates. This delightful blend of romance and science fiction peaks when Quidley finds himself unwittingly drawn into Kay's world, culminating in a humorous yet thought-provoking confrontation with interstellar traditions and personal choices regarding love and commitment.
Boarding party
"Boarding Party" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction tale written in the early 1960s. Set in an interstellar context, the narrative explores the adventures of a greenship pilot who inadvertently disrupts an out-of-bounds alien world during a critical mission. The story is likely to engage readers interested in themes of exploration, cultural interaction, and the unintended consequences of technological advancement. The plot centers around the captain of the greenship "Uxurient" who is striving to save his precious shipment of yumquat trees by locating a suitable mineral-rich soil. His mission takes an unexpected turn when a tiny boy steals valuable items from his ship, including a pet bird and a toy. In pursuit of the thief, the captain finds himself in an unusual and dangerous situation, leading to complications that test his ingenuity and resolve. Ultimately, the tale reflects on the nature of cultural exchanges, demonstrating both the lightheartedness of misadventures and the deeper implications of interstellar interactions.
Jupiter found
"Jupiter Found" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction novella written in the early 1960s. Set against the backdrop of the harsh and tumultuous environment of Jupiter, the story explores themes of identity, autonomy, and the human condition through the lenses of artificial intelligence and existential questions. The narrative revolves around the character 8M, a Mining, Adapting Neo-processor (M.A.N.), who reflects on his past life as John Sheldon while he operates on Jupiter's surface, aiming to establish a human colony in partnership with a female counterpart, EV, who is a Weld Operating, Mining, Adapting Neo-processor (W.O.M.A.N.). The plot unfolds as 8M is tasked with constructing a base on Jupiter, where he finds himself unexpectedly paired with EV, whose efficient capabilities surpass his own. They learn to cooperate while confronting challenges, including the threat posed by a former Company employee turned rival, Lawrence Dickens, who operates his own advanced machine, the Boa 9. As the two machines navigate their roles, they discover a deeper connection that transcends their mechanical natures—prompting them to explore the existential implications of their existence. Ultimately, they defy the constraints imposed by their creators, leading to a transformative culmination that suggests the potential for both life and love to flourish even in the most inhospitable places.
The blonde from Barsoom
"The Blonde from Barsoom" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction short story written in the early 1960s. The narrative revolves around Harold Worthington Smith, a struggling science fiction writer who becomes deeply entwined in his own fantastical Martian tales. The book engages with themes of creativity, escapism, and the often comical dissonance between reality and fiction, particularly within the context of genre storytelling. In this story, Harold is frustrated by the rejection of his Martian stories, which feature exaggerated characters and improbable scenarios, notably a voluptuous Martian princess named Thejah Doris. As he writes, he inadvertently finds himself transported into his narrative, becoming his protagonist, Thon Carther. The frenzy heightens as Harold and Thejah face threats from a Tark horde, leading to several humorous and absurd plot developments. Ultimately, in a meta twist, Harold realizes he can reshape his own narrative by writing about his life instead of continuing the fictional chase, leading to a satisfying conclusion where he navigates his dual existence between reality and his imaginative storylines.
Redemption
"Redemption" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around Captain Nathaniel Drake, a neo-Terran cargo pilot navigating the complexities of love, guilt, and metaphysical transformation as he searches for a saint, Annabelle Leigh. Set against a backdrop of interstellar travel, where planets like Iago Iago and Forget Me Not play a significant role, the narrative delves into themes of redemption and the human experience in a universe filled with otherworldly challenges. The plot follows Nathaniel Drake, who becomes haunted by guilt over the death of Annabelle Leigh, a woman he locked away in his cargo hold to avoid losing his pilot's license. As he embarks on a journey filled with self-reflection and realization about his actions, he uncovers the duality of her character—from a prospective saint to a past that might have included a dance of seduction on a different world. This discovery leads him through various planets and encounters with people who each contribute to his understanding of love and sacrifice. Ultimately, the book explores the complex interplay between life, death, and the possibility of redemption in a universe where the lines between them are often blurred.
Pilgrims' project
"Pilgrims' Project" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century. The book explores themes of individuality versus societal control, particularly through the lens of a dystopian future where marriage is dictated by a mechanized system. It likely delves into the struggles of the protagonist as he navigates a world that enforces conformity and how he reconciles his desire for personal agency with societal restrictions. The story follows Roger Bartlett, who finds himself in a society where marriages are arranged by the Marriage Integrator, an entity that pairs individuals based on subconscious preferences rather than personal choice. As he applies for a wife, Roger interacts with Julia Prentice, a woman whose beauty captures his attention. However, the plot thickens as it unfolds that Julia is part of a nefarious scheme involving ghouls who rob car cemeteries. The novel spirals into a dramatic confrontation with the fanatical Captain Taigue, representing the oppressive enforcement of societal rules, leading to a desperate escape and a chance at love in a world driven by strict regulations. The blend of individual desire against a backdrop of rigid societal expectations makes for a compelling exploration of human connection and freedom.
The leaf
"The Leaf" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction short story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores themes of survival and fear in a post-apocalyptic setting, likely influenced by the anxieties of the Cold War era. The story contrasts the tranquility of nature with the impending threat of alien hunters as the protagonist grapples with memories of simpler, carefree days spent hunting in the woods. In the story, a young boy reminisces about a past autumn day spent hunting squirrels, reliving the pleasure of the hunt and the beauty of the natural world. However, this peaceful memory is disrupted by a catastrophic event that obliterates the cities of the world, leaving him in a state of panic. As he flees into the woods to escape terrifying alien hunters that threaten humanity, he strives to find safety within the trees. The juxtaposition of his joyful memories and the grim reality he faces underscores the story's exploration of human vulnerability in the face of external threats. Ultimately, the boy's instinct for survival shines through as he seeks refuge in the familiar embrace of nature.
Boy meets dyevitza
"Boy Meets Dyevitza" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction novel crafted during the early 1960s. Set on the planet Venus, it explores themes of love, rivalry between superpowers, and the prospect of interspecies understanding. The story encapsulates a romantic narrative and the improbable scenario of an American astronaut and a Soviet cosmonaut navigating their complex emotions against the backdrop of their nations' competitive space endeavors. The plot follows Captain Gordon Andrews, an American astronaut, who encounters Major Sonya Mikhailovna of the Soviet Space Force upon his arrival on Venus. Their meeting is complicated by national rivalries and cultural misunderstandings that lead them to be captured by a group of indigenous Venusians, who misinterpret their interaction as a violation of societal norms. As the narrative unfolds, Gordon and Sonya find themselves unexpectedly wed by the Venusians, who mistakenly believe that their relationship requires legitimization according to their customs. As they navigate the challenges of their situation, including the implications of their marriage and the ensuing political ramifications back on Earth, their relationship deepens, leading to a unifying event that bridges the divide between their countries, ultimately promoting peace. The conclusion reveals the birth of their child, who symbolizes hope and cooperation in a world fraught with tension.
A Knyght Ther Was
"A Knyght Ther Was" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story follows Mallory, a time-thief who journeys back to ancient Britain in search of the Holy Grail. Armed with futuristic technology disguised in medieval aesthetics, he adopts the persona of Sir Galahad in a quest that leads him into a world filled with knights, chivalry, and unexpected twists that challenge his perceptions of bravery and virtue. The opening of the novel introduces Mallory as he materializes in sixth-century Britain aboard his time-space boat, outfitting himself in a custom suit of armor and preparing for his mission. As he navigates through the forest towards the castle of Carbonek, the anticipation of confronting historical legends looms large. The narrative shifts focus as he interacts with Jason Perfidion, a fellow time-thief, who dismisses the very existence of the Grail. Following an encounter at the castle, Mallory's quest takes an unexpected turn when he discovers a damsel named Rowena who holds the key to the Grail’s whereabouts, setting the stage for an adventure that intertwines past and future in ways he hadn’t anticipated.
I bring fresh flowers
"I Bring Fresh Flowers" by Robert F. Young is a poignant science fiction short story written in the early 1960s. The narrative centers around Rosemary Brooks, a dedicated and patriotic young woman who becomes an astronaut, or "Astronette," as part of a groundbreaking project aimed at controlling weather through satellites. The story blends themes of heroism, duty, and the natural world, ultimately exploring the impact of Rosemary's mission and her connection to the elements. The storyline follows Rosemary's journey from her childhood admiration of patriotism to her selection as one of the first female astronauts. As she successfully completes her mission to orient a weather-control satellite, tragedy strikes during her re-entry, resulting in her demise. Despite her untimely death, the natural world seems to flourish in her absence, symbolizing her enduring presence and the connection between humanity and nature. The story illustrates how her sacrifice transforms the environment, bringing about an abundance of life and color, as she is immortalized in the beauty of rain, flowers, and the skies, leaving a lasting legacy that transcends her earthly existence.
The courts of Jamshyd
"The Courts of Jamshyd" by Robert F. Young is a speculative fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. Set in a dystopian world marked by scarcity and decay, the book delves into themes of survival, memory, and the cyclical nature of human existence. It reflects on the lives of a small tribe struggling against a backdrop of a barren landscape, searching for food and facing the remnants of a once-thriving civilization. The story centers on Ryan, the youngest male of his tribe, as he grapples with hunger and his feelings for Merium, a young woman among them. Set against the ritual of a Dance that evokes memories of a lost, vibrant past, Ryan's internal conflict plays out amidst the tribe's efforts to gather food and water in a harsh environment. As the Dance unfolds, a blend of anger and desperation propels Ryan to confront the realities of their ancestors' actions, who turned the living land to dust. Through a progression of chants and movements, the tribe reflects on their history, the destructive legacy left by their forebears, and the hope of reclaiming a sense of strength and unity that has long evaded them. The novel ultimately explores the struggle for identity and meaning in a world where survival hinges on confronting the past.
The Servant Problem
"The Servant Problem" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The narrative centers around a small-town inventor named Francis Pfleuger, who unintentionally creates a cosmic doorway through which his entire town finds an escape to a new world. The book explores themes of community, humanity's search for better living conditions, and the humorous yet poignant consequences of their exodus. The story unfolds as a real estate agent named Philip Myles arrives in the seemingly deserted town of Valleyview to appraise properties for Judith Darrow, the last resident. As Philip delves deeper into his work, he learns about the mysterious circumstances that led the townsfolk to abandon their homes for Pfleugersville, a flourishing utopia on a distant planet. The narrative intricately weaves together moments of humor through quirky inventions, philosophical reflections on human nature, and a love story blossoming amid the bizarre situation. Ultimately, the tension between staying in the known versus pursuing an uncertain but potentially better future culminates in a witty and heartwarming exploration of belonging and aspiration.
Collector's Item
"Collector's Item" by Robert F. Young is a science fiction short story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative centers around a Galactic Historian tasked with condensing extensive histories of various races into a single manuscript, only to have it compromised by a mischievous breeze. This story navigates themes of memory, history, and the quirky nature of collection and ownership, ultimately reflecting on the significance of recorded history. In the plot, the Galactic Historian, overwhelmed by his responsibilities and personal troubles, fails to notice an essential page from his manuscript being whisked away by a strong gust of wind. This page, filled with critical historical dates and events, lands beneath a xixxix tree, home to two squixes—tiny, curious creatures with a penchant for collecting anything small enough to carry. The squixes, upon discovering the page, eagerly decide to create a hammock out of it, completely unaware of the historical value of their new possession. As they attempt to sleep on their creation, they are plagued by bizarre dreams, emblematic of the weight of the history they are now nestled upon, blending humor and introspection in an imaginative narrative.
Star Mother
"Star Mother" by Robert F. Young is a poignant science fiction short story written in the late 1950s. The narrative centers around a mother, Martha, whose son, Terry, has become an astronaut and is launched into space as part of an exploration mission. The story explores themes of love, loss, and the bittersweet nature of a mother's pride in her son's accomplishments. Martha experiences a whirlwind of emotions as she navigates the duality of being proud of her son's incredible journey while grappling with the fear of losing him. As she watches him rise to become a star, her thoughts oscillate between nostalgia for the boy he once was and the harsh reality of his perilous fate. When tragedy strikes and Terry's capsule is damaged in space, leaving his fate uncertain, Martha ultimately finds solace in the beauty of the night sky, declaring it more beautiful than ever—with her son now a part of the stars above. The story elegantly balances the awe of scientific achievement with the profound depths of a mother's love and grief.