Subject
Ventriloquists -- Fiction Books
Best books
Charles Brockden Brown
Memoirs of Carwin the Biloquist (A Fragment)
"Memoirs of Carwin the Biloquist (A Fragment)" by Charles Brockden Brown is an unfinished story published in monthly installments between 1803-1805. Young Carwin discovers he can perfectly mimic any voice through ventriloquism. As he develops this deceptive power, he attempts to manipulate those around him for personal gain. A mysterious gentleman named Ludloe takes him under his wing, hinting at a secret society—but demands complete honesty about Carwin's past. The story ends abruptly, leaving Carwin's fate unresolved and his connection to a suspicious death unexplained.
Edward L. (Edward Lytton) Wheeler
Fritz to the Front, or, the Ventriloquist Scamp-Hunter
"Fritz to the Front; or, the Ventriloquist Scamp-Hunter" by Edward L. Wheeler is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Fritz Snyder, a young detective with a flair for ventriloquism, who embarks on a thrilling adventure filled with mystery and intrigue. The opening chapters introduce us to Fritz's brave and inquisitive nature as he encounters various characters and situations, including a young woman named Madge, setting the stage for a cascade of events that intertwine their fates. At the start of the novel, Fritz finds himself on a ferry packed with a diverse crowd headed for Atlantic City. During the journey, he intervenes to protect Madge from an unwelcome advance by a drunken man, showcasing his courageous spirit. Following this incident, a series of mysterious events unfold, including Madge’s hurried marriage in a secluded cave, which intrigues Fritz and prompts him to investigate further. By the time Fritz and his newfound acquaintance, Hal Hartly, each face perilous situations related to a potential smuggling operation and personal vendettas, the story sets an exciting tone for the ensuing chase and deception, firmly establishing the foundations for gripping adventures ahead.
Mann Rubin
The Second Voice
"The Second Voice" by Mann Rubin is a science fiction novella published in the early 1950s. The story revolves around an ambitious ventriloquist named Robbie Crawford, who finds himself involved in a groundbreaking experiment at a military base. The main theme of the book is the intersection of performance art and scientific innovation, particularly how a unique vocal talent may unlock communication possibilities with other worlds. The narrative follows Robbie Crawford as he prepares for a show with his ventriloquist dummy, Spud. Unexpectedly, he is approached by Colonel Meadows and Dr. Paul Shalt, who reveal that they want to test if Crawford's second voice can be sent to Mars, as it possesses qualities suitable for interstellar communication. While initially hesitant, Crawford agrees, and during the experiment, Spud's voice is indeed sent to Mars, only to return with a threatening message from the Martians who warn them to stay away. This shocking turn leaves Crawford in disbelief, as he realizes that the voice he heard was not his own. The climax hinges on his desperate attempts to perform while struggling with the sudden loss of his vocal ability and the chilling realization that the Martians could potentially use his voice against Earth. The story artfully explores themes of identity, technology, and the unforeseen consequences of scientific progress.
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