Subject
Epidemics -- Fiction Books
Best books
Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
The Last Man
"The Last Man" by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley is an apocalyptic science fiction novel published in 1826. Set in late 21st-century Europe, the story follows humanity's struggle as a devastating plague sweeps across the globe, threatening extinction. Through the eyes of Lionel Verney and his circle—including characters inspired by Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron—the novel explores love, ambition, and survival against civilization's collapse. Written after profound personal loss, this pioneering work of dystopian fiction envisions Britain as a republic while chronicling humanity's darkest hour.
Jack London
The Scarlet Plague
"The Scarlet Plague" by Jack London is a post-apocalyptic novel published in 1912. Set in 2073, sixty years after a devastating epidemic has nearly wiped out humanity, an elderly survivor travels with his primitive grandsons through the ruins of San Francisco. He recounts memories of civilization before the Red Death struck—a world of technology, knowledge, and social order—but struggles to make his grandsons understand a past that seems impossibly distant and unbelievable to them.
George O. (George Oliver) Smith
Highways in Hiding
"Highways in Hiding" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel published in 1956. When a mysterious spaceborne illness called Mekstrom's Disease begins turning victims into stone, a secret society establishes hidden highways and safe houses to shelter the infected. Against this backdrop, espers and telepaths navigate a world where extraordinary abilities collide with a deadly plague. A cure exists, but those who possess it remain in the shadows, creating an underground network invisible to ordinary society.
J. D. (John Davys) Beresford
Goslings
"Goslings" by J. D. Beresford is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the Gosling family, particularly George Gosling, an ostensibly respectable middle-class man navigating the societal norms and expectations of his time, while being blissfully unaware of the turbulent inner lives and desires that lie beneath the surface of his routine existence. The initial chapters set the stage for a profound exploration of human behavior, social dynamics, and the brewing threat of a new plague that is hinted to escalate, possibly disrupting their seemingly mundane world. The opening of "Goslings" introduces us to George and his wife, who are engaged in a familiar domestic banter while anticipating the return of their daughters from a shopping trip. We learn about George's rise from humble beginnings to a stable middle-class life but also catch glimpses of his hidden desires and the delicate balance between his respectability and suppressed urges. As the family prepares for another evening at home, news of a concerning "new plague" spreading in China and reported cases in Russia begins to emerge, foreshadowing the larger crisis that will invade their lives. Through lively dialogue and character development, the first chapters establish the underlying tensions of personal and societal conflict that will likely unravel as the plot progresses.
Murray Leinster
Med Service
"Med Service" by Murray Leinster is a science fiction novel written in the late 1950s. It follows the story of Calhoun, a Med Ship pilot on a routine health inspection mission to the colony planet Maris III, who encounters a mysterious and deadly plague that has decimated the local population. Accompanied by his peculiar companion Murgatroyd, Calhoun must navigate an unexpected and perilous situation as local inhabitants exhibit strange behaviors and dangerous attacks that suggest deeper intrigues at play. At the start of the narrative, Calhoun and Murgatroyd are approaching Maris III when they experience an alarming incident caused by the planet’s landing grid, which violently attempts to destroy their ship. Upon landing, they discover a seemingly deserted city and a corpse with unanswered questions regarding its death. As Calhoun investigates further, it becomes clear that a recent plague is at the heart of the local mystery. The opening portion of the novel sets a tense atmosphere, blending elements of space adventure with medical science, as Calhoun prepares to uncover the truth behind the plague and the hostile actions of those in the city.
Sam McClatchie
The last vial
"The Last Vial" by Sam McClatchie is a science fiction novel written in the late 20th century. The story revolves around the rapid spread of a new and mysterious epidemic, impacting both the health of the population and the research efforts of a dedicated laboratory team. The main character, Dr. John Macdonald, finds himself caught between unraveling the mysteries of this virus and managing personal relationships amid the chaos. The opening of the novel introduces us to Dr. Macdonald as he returns to the laboratory after a vacation, only to discover that a flu epidemic has suddenly escalated in his absence. He quickly learns that the epidemic may be connected to a new strain of virus that exhibits unusual characteristics. As he navigates through interactions with colleagues, we get a glimpse into the laboratory's intense environment and the urgency to understand the implications of this outbreak. Early signs suggest that the flu may cause serious reproductive issues, raising alarms about potential sterilization for those affected, ultimately leading to a fear of significant societal consequences. The tension between scientific inquiry and the looming threat of a public health crisis sets the stage for a gripping narrative ahead.
Stephen Marlowe
Slaves to the Metal Horde
"Slaves to the Metal Horde" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story occurs in a post-apocalyptic world devastated by war and plague, where the remaining humans live in fear of both the disease and the robot armies originally created to serve humanity. The protagonist, Johnny Hope, struggles against the prejudices of his community as he seeks to understand the fate of the dead and the future of what is left of civilization. The opening portion of the novel introduces Johnny Hope, who faces hostility from his own village due to the death of his parents from the Plague. Despite his pleas to return his parents' bodies to their rightful resting place, he is rejected and ultimately left to fend for himself in a harsh world. As Johnny navigates his despair, he reflects on his past and the existence of robots that no longer serve man but might hold the key to understanding the Plague. Meanwhile, the narrative shifts to Diane, a member of a rebellious group known as the Shining Ones, who is resilient in her survival amidst the chaos. Their paths are set to intertwine, hinting at a journey that encompasses both danger and the search for truth as the world continues to crumble around them.
George O. (George Oliver) Smith
The fixer
"The Fixer" by Wesley Long is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. Set on the alien planet Telfu, the story follows Sandra Drake, a resourceful human stranded among the native Telfans as they face a devastating epidemic. The novel delves into themes of scientific experimentation and cross-cultural interactions in an alien world, while also exploring the challenges of survival and adaptation in an unfamiliar environment. In "The Fixer," Sandra Drake finds herself helping the Telfans combat a deadly airborne disease known as andryorelitis, which threatens to decimate their population. As she navigates her new life, Sandra uses her knowledge of Terran science to work with Telfan scientists who are struggling to create an effective antidote. Faced with numerous challenges, including communication barriers and the Telfan's unique physiology, Sandra devises a plan to contact her Terran colleagues for assistance. Ultimately, the story highlights her determination and ingenuity as she plays a critical role in the struggle for survival on Telfu, leading to a climactic resolution that showcases the power of collaboration and innovation. Through Sandra's journey, the novel addresses broader themes of identity, the nature of intelligence, and the moral complexities of scientific progress.
George O. (George Oliver) Smith
The incredible invasion
"The Incredible Invasion" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written in the late 1940s. The book delves into themes of geopolitical tensions, warfare, and the intricacies of political maneuvering amid the backdrop of post-World War II international relations. It explores the haunting potential of biological warfare as a tool for territorial expansion without traditional military conflict. The storyline centers around Jim Franklen, a representative of the United Nations Weapon Security Council, who is tasked with examining the burgeoning influence of the Central Power, led by the ambitious Commissario Hohmann. As Franklen investigates Hohmann’s legal but morally dubious expansion tactics, he discovers that the Central Power is using public health crises to weaken neighboring regions and integrate them into its territory without firing a shot. Throughout his mission, Franklen grapples with the moral implications of aggression masked as humanitarianism and the dilemma of using atomic weapons against a backdrop of growing world unrest. Ultimately, the book presents a speculative reflection on the nature of conflict and the potential for future wars to be fought through more insidious means.
Robert Abernathy
Righteous plague
"Righteous Plague" by Robert Abernathy is a science fiction novelet written in the early 1950s. The narrative tackles themes of biological warfare and unchecked scientific experimentation, focusing on the consequences of a deadly virus known as the "righteous plague." The story explores the ethical dilemmas faced by scientists when their work is co-opted for military purposes, highlighting the thin line between patriotism and the potential for mass destruction. The plot follows Dr. Joseph Euge, a bacteriologist who creates a powerful virus intended as a biological weapon. As the narrative unfolds, Euge finds himself trapped in a morally compromising situation, observing the catastrophic effects of the virus he unleashed. It becomes a tool for the Dictatura—an authoritarian regime seeking control and dominance over their enemies. The story intensifies as the virus spreads beyond its intended targets, ultimately threatening the very society that wielded it. Themes of fear, morality, and the unintended consequences of scientific advancement permeate the tale, culminating in a chilling reflection on humanity’s capacity for self-destruction.
Judith Vandeleur
The Water-Finders
"The Water-Finders" by Judith Vandeleur is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the small village of Willowton, which is facing a water shortage leading to a health crisis. The narrative introduces a diverse cast of characters, including George Lummis, the seemingly idle young man, and the determined vicar, Mr. Rutland, who is determined to find a solution to the village's predicament. The opening of the book sets a vivid scene in Willowton as the community grapples with the dire effects of an ongoing drought that threatens their health and livelihoods. The chapter introduces key players like George Lummis and the vicar, establishing the social dynamics and tensions within the village. George, often seen loafing with his less ambitious friends, contemplates his potential amidst the growing crisis. Meanwhile, the vicar takes it upon himself to address the health threats posed by the dirty water supply, highlighting the societal responsibilities resting on both individual and communal levels. The story hints at themes of social class, responsibility, and the human spirit's resilience in times of adversity, promising a compelling exploration of personal and communal challenges.
Robert Emmett McDowell
Black Silence
"Black Silence" by Robert Emmett McDowell is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story follows the crew of the spaceship "Argus", as they return from a disappointing two-year expedition to Mars, only to find Earth struck by a mysterious plague that has rendered civilization lifeless. The central character, Matt Magoffin, grapples not only with the haunting silence of the planet they once called home but also with the challenging dynamics developing among his crewmates in a world turned alien and dangerous. The opening of the narrative introduces readers to the crew's excitement for their return to Earth, abruptly shattered by a chilling broadcast announcing a devastating plague spreading uncontrollably. As they attempt to contact Earth to understand what's happened, a palpable tension builds within the crew, culminating in their descent into a desolate and dark world. Upon landing, they discover the grim reality of their situation: abandoned towns, eerie silence, and troubling signs of a societal collapse. The immediate horrors escalate as encounters with wild animals and unforeseen dangers unfold, setting the stage for Matt's intense struggle for survival and leadership amid chaos.
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