Subject
Inventors -- Fiction Books
Best books
Ralph Sholto
"And That's How It Was, Officer"
"And That's How It Was, Officer" by Ralph Sholto is a comedic crime fiction novel set in the mid-20th century. The story unfolds through a letter from Homer Nicholas, who is addressing the perplexed Chief of Police, David Nixon, about a series of bizarre events involving gangsters disappearing in Morton City after his wedding reception. The narrative delves into themes of family relations, social status, and unique scientific experiments, with humor intertwined throughout the plot. The plot centers around Homer and his bride, Joy, who unwittingly find themselves embroiled in a dangerous situation involving Homer's eccentric Uncle Peter, a scientist with a penchant for unorthodox experiments. After the wedding, gangsters crash the reception, leading to a chaotic series of events fueled by Uncle Peter's mysterious serum that disintegrates people in a dramatic fashion. As Homer and Joy chase down various leads to understand what is happening, they navigate a world of colorful characters, from Bag Ears Mulligan, Homer's loyal but slightly confused friend, to criminal masterminds like Hands McCaffery. The narrative culminates in a hilarious yet suspenseful revelation about Uncle Peter's true intentions and the bizarre scientific method behind the chaos, ultimately blending elements of humor, crime, and familial loyalty.
Cory Doctorow
Makers
"Makers" by Cory Doctorow is a novel published in 2009. Set in a near-future where the economy is collapsing, it follows two hardware hackers, Lester and Perry, who repurpose devices and 3D print products to survive. When a corporate CEO discovers their innovative work, their small operation transforms into something much larger. The story explores maker culture, business disruption, and living arrangements reimagined for uncertain times, culminating in an unexpected clash with Disney over an interactive museum.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
"My Novel" — Complete
"My Novel" by Edward Bulwer-Lytton is a novel likely written during the early to mid-19th century. The story opens with a discourse among characters in Uncle Roland's tower, where the protagonist, Pisistratus, is urged to write a novel amidst discussions of history, population pressures, and social commentary on English rural life. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to a vivid scene set in the tower where various characters, including Mr. Caxton and his family, engage in a lively dialogue about history and literature, hinting at Pisistratus's impending role as a writer. The conversation weaves between personal grievances, such as financial woes and the antiquated notion of the Corn Laws, and broader reflections on society. Through witty banter and musings on literary inspiration, the groundwork is laid for Pisistratus to embark on his journey as a novelist, fueled by familial encouragement and the chaotic yet endearing dynamics of life around him. As the opening unfolds, it establishes a setting rich with character-driven humor and philosophical inquiries that promise a blend of satire and social critique in the story to come.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
Stella Fregelius: A Tale of Three Destinies
"Stella Fregelius: A Tale of Three Destinies" by H. Rider Haggard is a novel published in 1904. Morris Monk, a young inventor engaged to his cousin Mary, rescues a mysterious woman named Stella from a shipwreck. As he and Stella grow close while perfecting his revolutionary communication device, Morris finds himself torn between duty and desire. Their connection leads to a spiritual marriage and supernatural consequences that transcend earthly bonds.
Sherwood Anderson
Poor White: A Novel
"Poor White: A Novel" by Sherwood Anderson is a novel written during the early 20th century. The book revolves around the life of Hugh McVey, a young man born into poverty and hardship in a small town along the Mississippi River. It explores themes of social class, self-discovery, and the struggle to escape a cycle of indolence and familial dysfunction. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Hugh McVey, whose early life is marked by neglect and hardship, primarily due to the failings of his alcoholic father. Orphaned and left to fend for himself, Hugh unexpectedly finds an opportunity for growth when he begins working as a man's assistant at a railroad station. There, he experiences a new rhythm of life and the influence of Sarah Shepard, the station master's wife, who becomes a maternal figure and endeavors to educate him, pulling him away from the lethargy that plagues his family and community. In this opening portion, we see Hugh's struggle with his identity, his desire for self-improvement, and his gradual awakening to the possibilities of a life beyond his impoverished upbringing, setting the stage for his later journey toward independence and self-actualization.
Edgar Franklin
Mr. Hawkins' Humorous Adventures
"Mr. Hawkins' Humorous Adventures" by Edgar Franklin is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story recounts the misadventures of the eccentric inventor Hawkins and his long-suffering neighbor, Griggs, who grapples with Hawkins' ill-fated inventions. The narrative is infused with humor, showcasing the consequences of Hawkins' creative yet often disastrous ideas, which frequently land both characters in absurd situations. The beginning of the novel introduces the character of Hawkins, described as part inventor and part idiot, whose apparent wealth exacerbates his foolishness. The story opens with Griggs deciding to construct a summer home, only to discover that Hawkins lives nearby, setting the stage for a series of comical mishaps. A significant incident revolves around Hawkins unveiling his latest invention, the "Hawkins Horse-brake," which leads to an uncontrollable ride with Hawkins on his aged horse, Maud S., resulting in chaos and hilarity. Griggs’ attempts to manage the fallout from Hawkins’ inventions create a humorous tension that runs throughout the early chapters, establishing the dynamic between the two characters and setting the tone for their further escapades.
Auguste Villiers de L'Isle-Adam
L'Ève future
"L'Ève future" by comte de Auguste Villiers de L'Isle-Adam is a symbolist science fiction novel published in 1880. When Lord Ewald confides to his friend Thomas Edison that he's contemplating suicide over his beautiful but empty-souled fiancée, Edison proposes an extraordinary solution: he will construct a perfect android replica named Hadaly. As Edison reveals the mechanical details of his creation and duplicates Alicia's physical form, questions emerge about artifice, perfection, and what makes a woman truly alive—leading to an unexpected supernatural twist.
Clarence Budington Kelland
Mark Tidd: His Adventures and Strategies
"Mark Tidd: His Adventures and Strategies" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the titular character, Mark Tidd, and his friends in the small town of Wicksville as they encounter life, inventions, and unexpected adventures. Central to the narrative is Mark's inventive father, whose turbine project serves as a backdrop for the boys' misadventures and interactions with a diverse cast of characters. At the start of the novel, we meet the narrator, a boy named "Tallow," who recounts the arrival of the overweight, stuttering Mark Tidd and his family to town. The narrative introduces us to Mark's unique personality, his father's eccentricities, and his mother's nurturing nature. As the boys help the Tidd family settle in, they quickly form a bond with Mark, leading to light-hearted challenges, secret societies, and intriguing encounters, including a mysterious stranger showing interest in Mark's father's turbine invention. The opening sets up a whimsical tone while hinting at deeper themes of friendship and loyalty as the boys navigate childhood together in a changing world.
Burt L. Standish
Owen Clancy's Run of Luck; or, The Motor Wizard in the Garage
"Owen Clancy's Run of Luck; or, The Motor Wizard in the Garage" by Burt L. Standish is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the adventures of Owen Clancy, a young man navigating the challenges of life while seeking employment. As he travels towards Phoenix, Arizona, he encounters various situations that test his character and resolve, including a severe car accident that he witnesses. The opening portion of the book introduces us to Owen Clancy and sets a dramatic tone as he witnesses a reckless car accident where a man is nearly killed. Clancy is depicted as quick-thinking and courageous as he leaps into action to save a bystander named James Montague Fortune, who has fallen over the precipice. Their bond is strengthened through shared experiences and mutual determination to find work in Phoenix. Clancy's quest leads him to a garage where he hopes to collect a debt owed to his family, setting the stage for further developments and conflicts involving unscrupulous figures like the garage owner, Silas Rockwell. As the plot unfolds, it hints at a deeper mystery and potential danger surrounding Clancy and his new companion, Fortune.
Luis Senarens
Frank Reade, Jr., With His New Steam Man in Central America
"Frank Reade, Jr., With His New Steam Man in Central America" by Luis Senarens is a thrilling adventure novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story follows Frank Reade, Jr., a young inventor known for creating remarkable steam-powered machines, particularly his creation, the Steam Man. With his faithful companions, he embarks on a daring journey to Central America to rescue his friend Tony Buckden, who has gone missing in the jungles of Yucatan amidst tales of ancient ruins filled with treasure. The opening of the narrative introduces Frank Reade, Jr., as he learns about his friend's impending dangers and a substantial reward for Tony's rescue, which stirs Frank’s adventurous spirit. The story swiftly transitions from Frank’s domestic life to the urgency of the rescue mission when he reads a cable from his friend and receives a letter detailing a hidden city filled with riches guarded by monstrous snakes. Accompanied by his loyal aides, Barney and Pomp, Frank prepares for the perilous expedition, showcasing the strengths of the Steam Man while hinting at the formidable challenges they will face in the wild jungles and the mysterious ancient city of Mazendla. This captivating blend of adventure, invention, and suspense holds promise for readers drawn to tales of exploration and heroism.
Poul Anderson
Snowball
"Snowball" by Poul Anderson is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story explores the profound implications of a groundbreaking invention by Simon Arch—a material with unprecedented electrical properties that can be easily produced at home. The narrative delves into the societal and economic upheaval that ensues as this new source of energy threatens established industries and exacerbates class tensions, reflecting on themes of individualism versus corporate power and the potential for both disaster and innovation. At the heart of "Snowball" is Simon Arch, a physicist who, alongside his wife Elizabeth, discovers a dielectric material known as capacitite, which can revolutionize energy storage and distribution. Their invention quickly attracts attention but also leads to unintended consequences as people begin to produce it on a massive scale, challenging the existing power structures. Amidst a backdrop of social unrest, Arch grapples with the ethical ramifications of his creation, which is increasingly used for both constructive and destructive purposes. The story culminates in a reflection on human resilience and adaptability as communities begin to rediscover autonomy and self-sufficiency, ultimately finding hope in the possibilities of new technologies.
Paul Myron Anthony Linebarger
Scanners live in vain
"Scanners live in vain" by Paul Myron Anthony Linebarger is a science fiction short story written in 1945. In a future where space travel causes unbearable pain and death, only Scanners—volunteers who have severed their sensory nerves—can crew starships. When a scientist discovers a way to make Scanners obsolete, their guild faces extinction and votes for murder. Scanner Martel must choose between loyalty to his brotherhood and preventing an assassination that could restore his lost humanity.
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