Shows
Golden Age FictionDie, Shadow! by Algis BudrysDavid Greaves began as a hero with his ship, Defiance, crash landing on Venus, but surviving unconscious in his Crash Capsule by using an experimental gas that might offer a chance to survive. Eons later and a universe away, he became instead a god! "Die, Shadow!" appeared in the May 1963 issue of "Worlds of If Science Fiction" on pages 61 - 76. Algirdas Jonas "Algis" Budrys (January 9, 1931 – June 9, 2008) was a Lithuanian-American science fiction author, editor, and critic. He was also known under the pen names Frank Mason, Alger Rome (in collaboration with Jerome Bixby), John A S...
2025-08-2146 min
Golden Age FictionThe Little Black Bag, by C M KornbluthThe normal progress of a technology produces simpler and simpler gadgets involving more and more complex fundamental laws. And, of course, requiring less and less of the user . . . "The Little Black Bag" appeared in the July 1950 issue of "Astounding Science Fiction" on pages 132 to 161. "The Little Black Bag" is a complementary story to "The Marching Morons," also by C M Kornbluth; the little black bag in question having come from the future envisioned in that story. "The Little Black Bag" won the 2001 Retroactive Hugo Award for Best Novelette (of 1951) and was also recognized...
2025-08-181h 22
Golden Age FictionNo Star's Land, by Joseph SamachsonA year in total isolation exploring distant galaxies is too long to spend with just one other person, even for newlyweds on their honeymoon. Wanting to get to Ganymede to start divorce proceedings, Jan and Karin get caught between two warring stars, as inconsequential as a bird roosting in the No Man's Land of the great battlefields of old Earth. "No Star's Land" appeared in "Fantastic Universe," July 1954, pages 134 - 146. Joseph Samachson (October 13, 1906 – June 2, 1980) was an American scientist and writer, primarily of science fiction and comic books. He wrote science fiction (under the pseudonym William Mo...
2025-07-3140 min
Golden Age FictionSecond-hand Stonehenge, by Ernest TavesIn this century, as before, women and Stonehenge share one trait; they serve both men! Today's story is "Second-hand Stonehenge" by Ernest Taves. It appeared in the July-August 1970 issue of Worlds of If Science Fiction magazine on pages 4 to 29 and 157 to 158. Ernest Henry Taves (February 1, 1916 – August 16, 2003) was an American psychiatrist, author of three non-fiction books, two on Mormonism and one on UFOs, and several science fiction short stories. He was a scientific skeptic and was a Technical Consultant for the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry. Taves served in Yokohama, Japan after WWII as a Ca...
2025-07-281h 19
Golden Age FictionThe Deadly Ones, by F L WallaceLife for their kind was becoming more difficult. So, Rathsden conceived a plan to stow away on a flying saucer and travel in secret to another planet. He was confident of surviving and finding another source of food... "The Deadly Ones" appeared in "Fantastic Universe," July 1954, pages 147 - 156. F L Wallace (February 16, 1915 – November 26, 2004), sometimes credited as Floyd Wallace, was a noted science fiction and mystery writer. Wallace spent most of his life in California as a writer and mechanical engineer after attending the University of Iowa. He also attended UCLA. His first published st...
2025-07-2532 min
Golden Age FictionAnton's Last Dream, by Edwin BairdA brief tale of the dismal success of a scientist's experiment. Today's story is "Anton's Last Dream" by Edwin Baird. It appeared in the May 1937 issue of Weird Tales on pages 607 to 611. Edwin Baird (June 28, 1886 – September 27, 1954) was the first editor of Weird Tales, the pioneering pulp magazine that specialized in horror fiction. Baird, hired by Weird Tales publisher J. C. Henneberger, put out the magazine's premiere issue, dated March 1923. Over the course of the next year, Baird published some of the magazine's most famous writers, including H. P. Lovecraft, Clark Ashton Smith, and Se...
2025-07-2120 min
Golden Age FictionLittle Men of Space, by Frank Belknap LongThe children were told not to mess with the rocket while their father slept. And they didn't. They really didn't. It was the little men. The little men from space who wanted to use it to get back home. "Little Men of Space" appeared in "Fantastic Universe," June-July 1953, pages 67 to 80. Frank Belknap Long Jr. (April 27, 1901 – January 3, 1994) was an American writer of horror fiction, fantasy, science fiction, poetry, gothic romance, comic books, and non-fiction. Though his writing career spanned seven decades, he is best known for his horror and science fiction short stories, including contributions to the...
2025-07-1945 min
Golden Age FictionThe Lost Race, by Robert E HowardReturning home to his native land from a secret mission to the tribes of Cornwall, Cororuc is captured by a strange people, a people out of myth and legend, with a chilling message to all Celtic Britons. "The Lost Race" appeared in "Weird Tales," January 1927, pages 74 - 82. Robert Ervin Howard (January 22, 1906 – June 11, 1936) was an American writer who wrote pulp fiction in a diverse range of genres. He created the character Conan the Barbarian and is regarded as the father of the sword and sorcery subgenre. Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibS...
2025-07-1638 min
Golden Age FictionBoots, by Murray LeinsterIn San Teodoro De Los Angeles, a gentleman was a man who wears shoes. One of the madmen who stumbled into Juan's camp had on a pair of boots... Today's story is "Boots" by Murray Leinster. It appeared in the August 15, 1929 issue of “Adventure” on pages 124 to 131. Murray Leinster (June 16, 1896 – June 8, 1975) was a pen name of William Fitzgerald Jenkins, an American writer of genre fiction, particularly of science fiction. He wrote and published more than 1,500 short stories and articles, 14 movie scripts, and hundreds of radio scripts and television plays. Links Reaper: reaper...
2025-07-1435 min
Golden Age FictionBattleground, by Lester del ReyThe crew of the Clarion had found the remains of civilizations in decreasing states of advancement the farther they got from Earth. Had they all destroyed themselves in a kind of contagious Armageddon, or was there an advanced alien species that was destroying these civilizations as they moved through space? "Battleground" appeared in "Fantastic Universe," July 1954, on pages 33 to 43. Lester del Rey (June 2, 1915 – May 10, 1993) was an American science fiction author and editor. He was the author of many books in the juvenile "Winston Science Fiction" series, and the editor at Del Rey Books, the fantasy an...
2025-07-1033 min
Golden Age FictionAn Enemy of Peace, by Robert SilverbergWhen enemies of peace threaten the System, they must be eliminated. There are many ways to do this. And if all else fails, you can always go to war with them. "An Enemy of Peace" appeared in the February 1957 issue of "Fantastic Science Fiction" on pages 86 to 98. It appeared under the pen name of Ralph Burke, as Robert Silverberg had another story published in that month's issue. Robert Silverberg (born January 15, 1935) is an American author and editor, best known for writing science fiction. He is a multiple winner of both Hugo and Nebula...
2025-07-0730 min
Golden Age FictionHystereo, by Maurice BaudinA quiet concert in the evening by the lake ... a harmless hi-fi hobbyist ... yet why did Woodard tremble at the sound, sound, sound. "Hystereo" appeared in "Amazing Stories," November 1961, pages 41 - 53. Maurice Baudin was an American writer of science fiction and a TV script writer, most notably writing for "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" and "General Electric Theater." Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibSyn: libsyn.com "Mesmerizing Galaxy" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. If there's a story you...
2025-07-0438 min
Golden Age FictionDeath of a Mutant, by Charles V de VetThe boy and his siblings were born with strange powers, but were also criminally insane. They had killed countless people and had been hunted down, one by one. The boy was now the only one left and Sheriff Derwin had him in custody for the killing of three White Bear Lake residents. The Sheriff would question the surviving relatives one last time to make sure he had all the evidence necessary to see the boy hang for his crimes... "Death of a Mutant" appeared in "Super-Science Fiction," February 1957, pages 112 - 126. Charles Vincent de Vet (28 October 1911...
2025-07-0133 min
Golden Age FictionSentinel of Eternity, by Arthur C ClarkeBefore there were men on Earth, that signal-sending pyramid had stood alone on a lifeless moon. What would happen now that its alarm was silenced? Today's story is "Sentinel of Eternity" by Arthur C Clarke. It appeared in the Sring 1951 issue of "10 Story Fantasy" on pages 41 to 47. This story, originally called "The Sentinel," was written in 1948 for a BBC competition in which it failed to place. Sir Arthur Charles Clarke CBE FRAS (16 December 1917 – 19 March 2008) was an English science fiction writer, science writer, futurist, inventor, undersea explorer, and television series host. He was...
2025-06-3028 min
Golden Age FictionFrom Beyond the Stars, by Murray LeinsterThe Jansky Radiation was emanating from a single source in space, according to Tommy's father, which meant that it was artificial, produced by a civilization beyond the solar system! Tommy's father would take weeks to analyze the signal in order to decipher it—a lifetime for Tommy—so he knew that he, like his comic book heroes, Space Captain McGee and the Star Rover, would have to step up and solve the problem... "From Beyond the Stars" appeared in "Thrilling Wonder Stories," June 1947, pages 82 - 88. Murray Leinster (June 16, 1896 – June 8, 1975) was a pen name of William Fitzge...
2025-06-2834 min
Golden Age FictionThe Strike at Too Dry, by Willis BrindleyHis parents had sent young Percival out to Too Dry, Montana, to live with his Uncle to make a man of him, and for his health. But all Percival wanted was to get back home to New York, and for that he needed just three hundred dollars... "The Strike at Too Dry" appeared in "Blue Book Magazine," January 1925, pages 78 - 84. If you have information about this author, I would be grateful if you could let me know using the Contact Form. Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibSyn: libsyn.com "...
2025-06-2537 min
Golden Age FictionThe Western Star, by Agatha ChristieTwo priceless diamonds, stolen from their original owner, but destined to be returned. Threatening letters from a mysterious Chinaman. A noblewoman's affair with a famous American actor. Hercule Poirot's little grey cells are once again put to the test. Today's story is "The Western Star" by Agatha Christie. It appeared in the February 1924 issue of The Blue Book Magazine on pages 38 to 47. Please be aware that this story contains derogatory racial references which are not acceptable nowadays. Dame Agatha Mary Clarissa Christie, Lady Mallowan, DBE (née Miller; 15 September 1890 – 12 January 1976) was an English wri...
2025-06-2353 min
Golden Age FictionA Thought For Tomorrow, by Robert E GilbertOrville Potts couldn't escape the asylum to the past, as he didn't have detailed knowledge of it to create an adequate visualization. The future, though, was unwritten; he could visualize it however he wanted... "A Thought for Tomorrow" appeared in "Galaxy Science Fiction," November 1952, pages 83 - 94. Robert E Gilbert (May 6, 1924 – April 4, 1993) was an American science fiction writer. Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibSyn: libsyn.com "Mesmerizing Galaxy" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. If there's a story...
2025-06-1933 min
Golden Age FictionThe Vortex Blaster Makes War, by Edward E 'Doc' SmithFrom the end of Time it came, a call for help as brave, as ageless as the very galaxies: "Save us or die, Vortex Blaster—but if you die, two worlds shall perish with you!" Today's story is "The Vortex Blaster Makes War" by Edward E "Doc" Smith. It appeared in the October 1942 issue of "Astonishing Stories" on pages 39 to 55. Edward Elmer Smith (May 2, 1890 – August 31, 1965) was an American food engineer and science-fiction author, best known for the Lensman and Skylark series. He is sometimes called the father of space opera. In 1963, he was presented the inau...
2025-06-161h 09
Golden Age FictionThe Closed Door, by John F Wilson & Mary A MillerEveryone thought Harry Owen had gone mad when he wrecked his own ship, the Shearwater, to save the passenger liner, the SS Western Pacific, from running aground in a violent storm. The story that Gorham related, however, explained that, while it was indeed madness that caused him to do it, it was a particular, but very common, kind of madness... "The Closed Door" appeared in Ainslee’s magazine, October 1922, pages 53 - 61. John F Wilson John Fleming Wilson, (February 22, 1877 – March 5, 1922), was an American author, newspaperman, and prolific writer of short stories and adventure novels, best...
2025-06-1342 min
Golden Age FictionThe Man Who Found Out, by Roger D AycockIt's one thing to blow a bubble of glib, journalistic lies. Quite another to have that bubble burst in a nightmarish, green beyond. "The Man Who Found Out" appeared in the September 1954 issue of "Fantastic Universe" on pages 70 to 76. Roger D Aycock (6 December 1914 – 5 April 2004) was an American author who wrote under the pseudonym Roger Dee. He primarily wrote science fiction. Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibSyn: libsyn.com "Mesmerizing Galaxy" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. If th...
2025-06-0920 min
Golden Age FictionA World to Die For, by Sam CarsonThe crew of the Markab had been sent by Galactic Service to intercept and stop the alien ship that had attacked ships of the fleet. But Rik Guelf, who was on this mission to search for his father, was hoping to make contact with the crystal woman who apparently commanded the five-mile-long translucent ship... "A World to Die For" was published in "Fantastic Universe," July, 1954, pages 74 - 82. Sam Carson was an American science fiction writer. He was a TV and radio reporter, and newspaperman. Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibSyn: li...
2025-06-0728 min
Golden Age FictionThe Seven Missionaries, by H C McNeileOne would have thought, with the invention of the wireless radio, that piracy would be a thing of the past. Jim Maitland, and the passengers and crew of the SS Andaman were to discover that modern pirates could use the wireless, too. "The Seven Missionaries" appeared in "McClure’s Magazine," October 1923, pages 35 - 41. Herman Cyril McNeile, MC (28 September 1888 – 14 August 1937), publishing under the name H C McNeile or the pseudonym "Sapper," was a British soldier and author. Drawing on his experiences in the trenches during the First World War, he started writing short stories for the Daily...
2025-06-0443 min
Golden Age FictionThe Last Question, by Isaac AsimovGenerations of men came and went while the computer pondered the data. "The Last Question" appeared in the November 1956 issue of "Science Fiction Quarterly" on pages 6 to 15. Isaac Asimov (c. January 2, 1920 – April 6, 1992) was an American writer and professor of biochemistry at Boston University. During his lifetime, Asimov was considered one of the "Big Three" science fiction writers, along with Robert A. Heinlein and Arthur C. Clarke. A prolific writer, he wrote or edited more than 500 books. He also wrote an estimated 90,000 letters and postcards. Best known for his hard science fiction, Asimov also wrote mysteries and f...
2025-06-0237 min
Golden Age FictionWoman's Touch, by Evelyn E SmithTheir orders were to leave the natives of the new planet strictly alone. But those surveyors' wives were women, and women don't obey orders—or leave people alone! "Woman's Touch" appeared in "Super-Science Fiction," February 1957, pages 46 to 66. Evelyn E Smith (25 July 1922 – 4 July 2000) was an American writer of science fiction and mysteries, as well as a compiler of crossword puzzles. During the 1950s, under her own name, Smith regularly published short stories and novelettes in such publications as Galaxy Science Fiction, Fantastic Universe and the The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction. Her short fiction rang...
2025-05-2949 min
Golden Age FictionStorm Cloud on Deka, by Edward E 'Doc' SmithCivilization is established. Lensmen safeguard every world. But the threat of the Atomic Vortices still lingers. Neal 'Storm' Cloud, atomic physicist and human computer, is the only being capable of extinguishing these destructive forces. But there are other forces at work in the universe... "Storm Cloud on Deka" appeared in the June 1942 issue of "Astonishing Stories", on pages 40 to 59. Edward Elmer Smith (May 2, 1890 – August 31, 1965) was an American food engineer and science-fiction author, best known for the Lensman and Skylark series. He is sometimes called the father of space opera. In 1963, he was presented the inaugural "Fi...
2025-05-261h 16
Golden Age FictionBox Garden & I, Gardener, by Allen K LangBox Garden The stranger had big ears, was terribly fearful of, and yet pitied, TV commercials, and kept going on about 'bansai,' with an 's.' "Box-garden" was published in "Science Fiction Adventures," April, 1958. I, Gardener I was early for my appoinment with the great Dr. Ozoneff, and consequently, had to talk to his gardener for a few minutes before I was allowed into the house. His gardener, it turned out, was quite mad. "I, Gardener" was published in "Fantastic Science Fiction Stories," December, 1959, pages 89 to 95. ...
2025-05-2333 min
Golden Age FictionHis to Fly, by Richard Howells WatkinsOne Parachute and Two Men—and the Ship Couldn’t Land. What Happened? "His to Fly" appeared in "The Popular Magazine", August 7th 1929, pages 106 to 115. Richard Howells Watkins (May 26, 1895 - ?) was an author in the adventure/detective genre, a World War I veteran, a lifelong traveler, and an auto racing, aviation, and maritime enthusiast. Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibSyn: libsyn.com "Mesmerizing Galaxy" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. If there's a story you'd like me to na...
2025-05-1939 min
Golden Age FictionA Time to Die, by Harold CalinCaptain Kingsford, the only survivor of the Essex's ill-fated mission to Aldebaran IX, was recruiting another crew to revisit Aldebaran IX, mine the hugely rich ore deposits on that planet, and hunt and kill the monster that had killed his crew. Philip "Buck" Rogers was sick of retirement and needed something to do, and Executive Officer on the Algonquin, Kingsford's new ship, seemed just the job to ease back into the space-faring life.. "A Time to Die" appeared in "Amazing Stories," June 1961, pages 47 - 66. Harold Calin was an author of science and WWII mi...
2025-05-1753 min
Golden Age FictionThe Stainless Steel Rat (Short Story,) by Harry Harrison"We are the rats in the wainscoting of society—we operate outside of their barriers and outside of their rules. Society had more rats when the rules were looser, just as the old wooden buildings had more rats than the concrete buildings that came later. But they still had rats. Now that society is all ferroconcrete and stainless steel there are fewer gaps between the joints, and it takes a smart rat to find them. A stainless steel rat is right at home in this environment." James Bolivar "Slippery Jim" diGriz was a criminal in a time wh...
2025-05-1450 min
Golden Age FictionThe Cottage, by Frank Belknap LongThere was a savage cruelty in Durkin's hatred of his children. Little did he know that on other worlds—cruelty boomeranged. Today's story is "The Cottage" by Frank Belknap Long. It appeared in the September 1954 issue of "Fantastic Universe" on pages 58 to 69. Frank Belknap Long Jr. (April 27, 1901 – January 3, 1994) was an American writer of horror fiction, fantasy, science fiction, poetry, gothic romance, comic books, and non-fiction. Though his writing career spanned seven decades, he is best known for his horror and science fiction short stories, including contributions to the Cthulhu Mythos alongside his friend, H. P. Love...
2025-05-1236 min
Golden Age FictionPrize of the Air, by Ben ConlonBill Barlow, a former war ace, now took passengers for rides in his plane. One loop-the-loop too many however, and the airfield superintendant was forced to revoke his passenger license—friend or no friend. Luckily, his latest passenger, a Frank C Saxton, had a solution to this predicament that would take Bill on his most exciting adventure yet... "Prize of the Air" appeared in "Argosy All-Story Weekly," March 27, 1928, pages 601 - 611. If you have information about this author, I would be grateful if you could let me know using the Contact Form. Links ...
2025-05-0848 min
Golden Age FictionThy Rocks and Rills, by Robert E GilbertThey were out of place in the Manly Age--Stonecypher, a man who loved animals; Moe, a bull who hated men. Together, they marched to inevitably similar destinies... "Thy Rocks and Rills" appeared in "If, Worlds of Science Fiction", September, 1953, pages 76 to 98. Robert E Gilbert (May 6, 1924 – April 4, 1993) was an American science fiction writer. Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibSyn: libsyn.com "Mesmerizing Galaxy" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. If there's a story you'd like me to narra...
2025-05-051h 15
Golden Age FictionThe Missionary, by Jesse F BoneHe had been sent to kill the Father of Evil, to purge his corruption from this world. But Wolverton had shot him down, captured him, and now, injured, he had to endure conversation with this loathed man. "The Missionary" appeared in "Amazing Stories," October 1960. Jesse Franklin Bone (1916-2006) was an American author and veterinarian whose writing gained prominence during the 'Golden Age of Science-Fiction' in the 1950's. His first story, "Survival Type" was published in "Galaxy," March 1957. His short-story Triggerman was nominated for the Hugo Award for Best Short Story in 1959. In addition t...
2025-05-021h 05
Golden Age FictionThe Vortex Blaster, by E E Smith, PhDNeal "Storm" Cloud, atomic physicist, through personal tragedy, is destined to become the most noted figure in the galaxy. "The Vortex Blaster" appeared in "Comet", July 1941, pages 2 to 17. Edward Elmer Smith (May 2, 1890 – August 31, 1965) was an American food engineer and science-fiction author, best known for the Lensman and Skylark series. He is sometimes called the father of space opera. In 1963, he was presented the inaugural "First Fandom Hall of Fame" award at the 21st World Science Fiction Convention in Washington, D.C. Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibSyn: libsyn.com "Me...
2025-04-2859 min
Golden Age FictionThe Monster Maker, by Ray Bradbury"Get the pirate Gunther," were their orders. But Click and Irish were marooned on the pirate's asteroid—their only weapons a single gun and a news-reel camera. "The Monster Maker" appeared in "Planet Stories," Spring 1944, pages 39 - 47. Ray Douglas Bradbury (August 22, 1920 – June 5, 2012) was an American author and screenwriter. One of the most celebrated 20th-century American writers, he worked in a variety of genres, including fantasy, science fiction, horror, mystery, and realistic fiction. Bradbury is widely known by the general public for his novel Fahrenheit 451 (1953) and his short-story collections The Martian Chronicles (1950) and The Illu...
2025-04-2642 min
Golden Age FictionTrajectory to Taurus, by Les ColeWhy were Fred Kirr's shipmates calling the planet Gamma Tauri II, which they were surveying for evidence of intelligent life, a paradise, when it was in reality a desolate hell? Why was he the only one who could see the truth? Or was he the one going mad? "Trajectory to Taurus" appeared in "Amazing Stories," September 1960, pages 39 to 56. Lester Hines Cole (14 July 1926 - September 2019) was an American writer of science and historical fiction. Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibSyn: libsyn.com "Mesmerizing Galaxy" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed un...
2025-04-2348 min
Golden Age FictionThe Terrors of the Upper Air, by Frank OrndorffKidwell and Dexter, the daredevil aviators, were attempting to break the world altitude record at the State Fair. But, they were also muderers and thieves, and Pemberton, the renowned detective, had to wait until they returned from their adventures in the upper air before he could bring them to justice... "The Terrors of the Upper Air" appeared in "Amazing Stories Quarterly", Winter 1928, pages 138 to 143. Frank Milliken Orndorff (22 October 1885 - 10 April 1971) was an American writer of adventure fiction. Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibSyn: libsyn.com "Mesmerizing Galaxy" Kevin Mac...
2025-04-2140 min
Golden Age FictionQuinquepedalian, by Piers AnthonyWhat kind of creature could make a nine-foot diameter, two-inch deep footprint in the soil of a forest? Charles Tinnerman and his companions were about to find out... "Quinquepedalian" appeared in "Amazing Stories," November 1963, pages 106 - 121 and 130. Piers Anthony Dillingham Jacob (born 6 August 1934) is an American author in the science fiction and fantasy genres, publishing under the name Piers Anthony. He is best known for his long-running novel series set in the fictional realm of Xanth. Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibSyn: libsyn.com "Mesmerizing Galaxy" Kevin MacLeod (in...
2025-04-1745 min
Golden Age FictionThe Trap, by Murray LeinsterColby’s murder plan was perfect—except at one point... "The Trap" appeared in "Munsey's Magazine", August 1929, pages 467 to 477. Murray Leinster (June 16, 1896 – June 8, 1975) was a pen name of William Fitzgerald Jenkins, an American writer of genre fiction, particularly of science fiction. He wrote and published more than 1,500 short stories and articles, 14 movie scripts, and hundreds of radio scripts and television plays. Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibSyn: libsyn.com "Mesmerizing Galaxy" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. If there...
2025-04-1442 min
Golden Age FictionManners and Customs of the Thrid, by Murray LeinsterThe Thrid were the most intelligent creatures in the universe—they said so themselves. So intelligent that they had the perfect government that could never be wrong! The Grand Panjandrum—the leader of the government—could never be mistaken! Provincial Governors' words were truth—none could be contradicted. If you did, you were a criminal, or insane... "Manners and Customs of the Thrid" appeared in "Worlds of If Science Fiction," September 1963, pages 40 to 55. Murray Leinster (June 16, 1896 – June 8, 1975) was a pen name of William Fitzgerald Jenkins, an American writer of genre fiction, particularly of science fiction. He wrote a...
2025-04-1150 min
Golden Age FictionThe Marching Morons, by C M KornbluthIn the country of the blind, the one-eyed man, of course, is king. But how about a live wire, a smart businessman, in a civilization of 100% pure chumps? "The Marching Morons" appeared in "Galaxy Science Fiction", April 1951, on pages 128 to 158. Cyril M Kornbluth (July 2, 1923 – March 21, 1958) was an American science fiction author and a member of the Futurians. He used a variety of pen-names, including Cecil Corwin, S D Gottesman, Edward J Bellin, Kenneth Falconer, Walter C Davies, Simon Eisner, Jordan Park, Arthur Cooke, Paul Dennis Lavond, and Scott Mariner. As a teenager, he bec...
2025-04-071h 24
Golden Age FictionFor Service Rendered, by J F BoneEnid Twilley's life was lived vicariously through shows on the TV. So, when a malfunction caused her television to stop working, she thought her life had come to an end. However, the unique nature of the malfunction provided an opportunity for her life to take a completely new turn... "For Service Rendered" appeared in "Amazing Stories," April 1963, pages 99 to 113. Jesse Franklin Bone (1916-2006) was an American author and veterinarian whose writing gained prominence during the 'Golden Age of Science-Fiction' in the 1950's. His first story, "Survival Type" was published in "Galaxy," March 1957. His short-story "Triggerman"...
2025-04-0542 min
Golden Age FictionMorgue Ship & Lazarus Come Forth, by Ray BradburyMorgue Ship This was going to be Sam Burnett's last trip collecting bodies from the debris of space battles in this war. Once all one hundred shelves were filled, they would return to Earth, and he would be back among the living again. The ninety-eighth body, however, was different, unexpected, one of the enemy, important. But more than that, they weren't dead... "Morgue Ship" appeared in "Planet Stories," Summer 1944, pages 51 to 57. Lazarus Come Forth The crew of the Morgue Ship had found something in space that would end the three hundred...
2025-04-021h 00
Golden Age FictionThe Minstrel's Curse, by Mrs Alex McVeigh MillerThe Minstrel's Curse had plagued the Chilton women for almost two centuries, and Edith Chilton, namesake of the one who had been the cause of the curse all those years ago, knew that it would not be lifted this time, for she loved the wrong man... "The Minstrel's Curse" appeared serialized in Norman L Munro’s "New York Family Story Paper (volume XIX, numbers 952-955)" from January 2nd to 23rd, 1892. Mrs. Alex. McVeigh Miller (April 30, 1850 – December 26, 1937) was the pen name of Mittie Frances Clarke Point, an American novelist. She wrote 80 dime novels during a 50-year caree...
2025-03-3143 min
Golden Age FictionRivals of the Clouds, by Raoul WhitfieldFlying through a clinging, blinding fog, Lieutenant Adams flew straight into a death trap of flashing enemy planes and flaming, stuttering machine guns. "Rivals of the Clouds" appeared in "Triple-X Magazine," January 1929, pages 53 - 62. Raoul Whitfield (November 22, 1896 – January 24, 1945) was an American writer of adventure, aviation, and hardboiled crime fiction. During his writing career, from the mid-1920s to the mid-1930s, Whitfield published over 300 short stories and serials in pulp magazines, as well as nine books, including Green Ice (1930) and Death in a Bowl (1931). For his novels and contributions to the Black Mask, Whitfield is con...
2025-03-2642 min
Golden Age FictionPeter Merton's Private Mint, by Harlan EllisonYour name is Merton and you find that all you have to do is reach into your safe to get money. The more you take, the more you find. And just when Quiggs has cut your future down to nothing. A wonderful discovery! Or is it? Of course it is. You'll be the richest man in the world. But will you? "Peter Merton's Private Mint" appeared in "Fantastic", October 1956, pages 74 to 87. Harlan Jay Ellison (May 27, 1934 – June 28, 2018) was an American writer, known for his prolific and influential work in New Wave speculative fiction and for his out...
2025-03-2332 min
Golden Age FictionThe New Accelerator, by H G WellsGibberne's nerve stimulant, The New Accelerator, which could speed a man up to two or three times normal, was going to revolutionise human life. "The New Accelerator" appeared in "Amazing Stories," April 1926, pages 57 to 61 and 96. Herbert George Wells (21 September 1866 – 13 August 1946) was an English writer. He wrote more than fifty novels and dozens of short stories. His non-fiction output included works of social commentary, politics, history, popular science, satire, biography, and autobiography. Wells' science fiction novels are so well regarded that he has been called the "father of science fiction". As a futurist, he wr...
2025-03-2037 min
Golden Age FictionFlood Waters, by Leland S JamiesonA week of rain had undermined the tracks, causing the train to derail. But the nearest place to land was twelve miles away! How was Nick Wentworth, chief pilot of the U. S. Air Patrol, going to land an Army transport hastily converted into an air ambulance in such awful conditions? And how was he going to get to the injured survivors of the train wreck? "Flood Waters" appeared in "The Blue Book Magazine", June 1929, pages 39 to 48. Leland Jamieson (1904-1941) was a writer of aviation adventure fiction. Links Reaper: reaper.fm...
2025-03-1642 min
Golden Age FictionThe Square Pegs & Defense Mech, by Ray BradburyThe Square Pegs Lisabeth was not insane, not according to her, and not according to Asteroid Thirty-Six, where she was being taken by her brother and sisters, where the old Catherine the Great had died, and where they were waiting for the new one to arrive. Her! "The Square Pegs" appeared in "Thrilling Wonder Stories," October 1948, pages 101 to 108. Defense Mech Halloway stared down at Earth, and his brain tore loose and screamed, Man, man, how'd you get in a mess like this, in a rocket a million miles past the moon...
2025-03-141h 09
Golden Age FictionTitle Fight & The Woman Obsession, by William C GaultTitle Fight There would be blood on the streets tonight when Alix 1340, a robot, beat the current middleweight champion of the world, Nick Nolan, a human. Alix was fighting for the rights of the robots, the right to be recognized as having that 'spark of life' that gave the humans dominion over the sea and the land. He had to win... "Title Fight" appeared in "Fantastic Universe," December 1956, pages 101 to 111. The Woman Obsession Surely Collins was an idiot. He dreamt of women in a world that had forgotten their 'function...
2025-03-111h 04
Golden Age FictionArm of the Law, by Harry HarrisonWhat would happen when a police robot was posted to a law enforcement outpost on Mars? How could a robot—a machine, after all—be involved in something as complex as the application of law? At one time—this was before the Robot Restriction Laws—they'd been allowed to make their own decisions.... "Arm of the Law" appeared in "Fantastic Universe", August, 1958, pages 23 to 36. Harry Max Harrison (March 12, 1925 – August 15, 2012) was an American science fiction author, known mostly for his character The Stainless Steel Rat and for his novel Make Room! Make Room! (1966). The latter was the rough b...
2025-03-0943 min
Golden Age FictionThe Ice Goes Out & Raw Men, by Frank Richardson PierceThe Ice Goes Out This is a story of Alaska, in which honest men and crooks propose, but inscrutable Nature disposes. "The Ice Goes Out" appeared in "Adventure," July 1st 1928, pages 58 - 61. Raw Men Dick Walton's father had sent him out on Hanson's Arctic trading schooner to make something of him, to make up for his own failings as a father, in the hopes that he could learn that which his father had been unable to teach him. What he learned was that there are men, and there are Raw Men. W...
2025-03-0554 min
Golden Age FictionClassified Object, by John Victor PetersonThere was a comic book in the alien space ship—of a sort. But it wasn't meant for children. "Classified Object" appeared in "Fantastic Universe", July 1954, pages 115 to 129. John Victor Peterson was an American author who began publishing work of genre interest with "Martyrs Don't Mind Dying" in "Astounding", January 1938, and writing science fiction stories for various contemporary science fiction magazines until 1959. With Allen Ingvald Benson he published "Atmospherics" ("Astounding", September 1939) under the joint pseudonym "Victor Valding". He wrote one full-length novel, "Rock the Big Rock", published in 1970. Links Reaper: reaper.fm
2025-03-0244 min
Golden Age FictionA Long Way Back & The Next Logical Step, by Ben BovaA Long Way Back After the war that ravaged the world, he held the future of civilization in his numbed hands. The satellite was ready to beam power back to Earth, and knowing that he wouldn't live to see the results, from 22,500 miles out, he made the gamble. "A Long Way Back" appeared in "Amazing Science Fiction Stories" February 1960. The Next Logical Step Normally, the military would want to keep the predictions of their wargames secret. But there might be times when you would want the enemy to see the results...
2025-02-2758 min
Golden Age FictionTravelogue & The Minster had to Wait, by Roger D AycockTravelogue Adventure called late in the diffident, gentle, dreaming life of Wesley Filburn, mediocre writer of science fiction stories. But when it did call—in the shape of a strange child drowning in Sampson's Creek—it was just in time to save him from the machinations of the two women closest to him... "Travelogue" appeared in "Fantastic Universe," December 1956, pages 87 - 100. The Minister had to Wait Dr. Maxey's Dimension-tube would allow the Western Allied Military to penetrate the East's defensive shields and finally win the war, no matter how strenuously Dr. Maxe...
2025-02-241h 11
Golden Age FictionLancelot Biggs, Master Navigator, by Nelson S BondTrust Lancelot Biggs to get the Saturn into a mess just when speed and good navigation meant the prize contract of the year...! "Lancelot Biggs, Master Navigator" appeared in "Fantastic Adventures," May 1940, pages 30 - 37. Nelson Slade Bond (November 23, 1908 – November 4, 2006) was an American writer. His works included books, magazine articles, and scripts used in radio, for television and on the stage. The 1998 recipient of the Nebula Author Emeritus award for lifetime achievement, Bond was a pioneer in early science fiction and fantasy. His published fiction is mainly short stories, most of which appeared in pul...
2025-02-2345 min
Golden Age FictionReferent & The Irritated People, by Ray BradburyReferent Roby Morrison was special, a genius, but he didn't want to be. He wanted to escape the island where every waking moment was supervised. He wanted to be a normal boy doing normal things. He wanted to keep his dreams of the Sandman to himself. He wanted to bounce a rubber ball. He wanted to see his mother. He wanted to fly away from this place... "Referent" appeared in "Thrilling Wonder Stories," October 1948, pages 148 - 152. The Irritated People How does one make war without hurting anyone? That's exactly what Charles...
2025-02-2159 min
Golden Age FictionThe Madness of Lancelot Biggs, by Nelson S BondThere was more at stake than just a football game for Lancelot Biggs; two hundred and fifty credits, his claims on three future planetary discoveries, the rights to his new uranium condenser, his rocket emblem...and his heart! "The Madness of Lancelot Biggs" appeared in "Fantastic Adventures," April 1940 pages 70 - 77. Nelson Slade Bond (November 23, 1908 – November 4, 2006) was an American writer. His works included books, magazine articles, and scripts used in radio, for television and on the stage. The 1998 recipient of the Nebula Author Emeritus award for lifetime achievement, Bond was a pioneer in early sci...
2025-02-1846 min
Golden Age FictionThe Man from Time & Mr Caxton Draws a Martian Bird, by Frank Belknap LongThe Man from Time Being the first Time Traveller, he couldn't have known about Time Fear; every date he observed terrified him. Lost in the vastness of Time, he didn't know how his colleagues would find him again. "The Man from Time" appeared in "Fantastic Universe," March 1954, pages 74 - 85. Mr Caxton Draws a Martian Bird No animal the size of the 'huge bird' Peter supposedly saw could survive on Mars without oxygenating apparatus. So said mean, grumpy Mr Caxton who was tasked with looking after them while their parents were away...
2025-02-161h 06
Golden Age FictionLancelot Biggs Cooks a Pirate, by Nelson S Bond"Cooking," explained Biggs, "is simply a matter of chemistry." But little did he know he'd have to prove that statement in order to save the crew of the Saturn from pirates! "Lancelot Biggs cooks a pirate" appeared in "Fantastic Adventures," February 1940, pages 40 - 46. Nelson Slade Bond (November 23, 1908 – November 4, 2006) was an American writer. His works included books, magazine articles, and scripts used in radio, for television and on the stage. The 1998 recipient of the Nebula Author Emeritus award for lifetime achievement, Bond was a pioneer in early science fiction and fantasy. His published fiction is...
2025-02-1543 min
Golden Age FictionF O B Venus, by Nelson S BondLancelot Biggs was perhaps the worst second mate Captain Hanson had ever shipped, and he was convinced of it when he ruined their cargo. But how dumb a man is, may sometimes be a matter of opinion. "F O B Venus" appeared in "Fantastic Adventures," November, 1939, pages 34 to 40. Nelson Slade Bond (November 23, 1908 – November 4, 2006) was an American writer. His works included books, magazine articles, and scripts used in radio, for television and on the stage. The 1998 recipient of the Nebula Author Emeritus award for lifetime achievement, Bond was a pioneer in early science fiction an...
2025-02-1239 min
Golden Age FictionRastignac the Devil, by Philip José FarmerA man who refused to wear a Skin was labeled a "devil." Rastignac was such a man. He was a meat eater, adhered to the Philosophy of Violence, and was the leader of the Legal Underground of the Kingdom of L'Bawpfey. He could also see the end of Homo Sapiens on their adopted planet. All he wanted to do was to get to the Six Flying Stars—the space-ships that had brought humanity to this planet—and fly away to the stars. "Rastignac the Devil" appeared in "Fantastic Universe," May 1954, pages 2 - 44. Philip José Farmer (Januar...
2025-02-092h 20
Golden Age FictionThe Man Who Wouldn't Sign Up, by Thomas E PurdomPeople had been telling Henry Westing, who just wanted to live his own life in his own manner, that he should belong to something, that he should join. When The Organization started to pester him to join them, he knew they would evetually wear him down, unless... "The Man Who Wouldn't Sign Up" appeared in "Infinity Science Fiction," October 1958, pages 68 - 77. Thomas Edward Purdom (born 1936) is an American writer best known for science fiction and nonfiction. His story "Fossil Games" was a nominee for the Hugo Award for Best Novelette in 2000. Links
2025-02-0623 min
Golden Age FictionThe Repairman, Navy Day & Toy Shop, by Harry HarrisonThe Repairman A Mark III beacon, one of the earliest beacons deployed, possibly even the first, had broken down, and he had to go and fix it. Trouble was, there was a religious war going on around it. Time to get creative with the rules surrounding interactions with native species... "The Repairman" appeared in "Galaxy Science Fiction" February 1958, pages 60 - 73. Navy Day The U.S. Army was calling for the abolition of the anachronistic U.S. Navy, and they had a strong case to make. The U.S. Navy, however, would n...
2025-02-031h 06
Golden Age FictionBeyond our Control, by Randall GarrettSatellite Number Four had been knocked out of its orbit, disrupting communications around the world. James Fitzpatrick MacIlheny, "Mac" to his colleagues and "Fitz" to his friends, the Operational Vice-President of Circum-Global Communications had to get Number Four back into its correct orbit, and fast! However, what they found when they sent up the repair drone was beyond what anyone could have imagined... "Beyond Our Control" appeared in "Infinity Science Fiction," January 1958, pages 68 - 85. Gordon Randall Phillip David Garrett (December 16, 1927 – December 31, 1987) was an American science fiction and fantasy author. He was a contributor to Astounding an...
2025-01-3141 min
Golden Age FictionThe Hunter's Lodge Case & The Plymouth Express Affair, by Agatha ChristieThe Hunter's Lodge Case Even from his sick-bed, Hercule Poirot's famous "little gray cells" solve an apparently unsolvable murder mystery. "The Hunter's Lodge Case" appeared in "The Blue Book Magazine," June 1924, pages 54 - 59. The Plymouth Express Affair The murder of an American steel magnate's daughter on a train from Plymouth to Bristol. A box of jewels worth over $100,000 stolen. A mysterious stranger, an estranged husband, and a playboy Count. Hercule Poirot's 'little gray cells' are put to the test again. "The Plymouth Express Affair" appeared in "The Blue Book M...
2025-01-291h 03
Golden Age FictionMr Lonliness, A Kiss for the Conqueror, & My Robot, by Henry SlesarMr Lonliness It is lonely out there in space. Very, very lonely! A man needs to see a human face, hear a human voice. So visitors have to be sent out somehow—by some means. "Mr Lonliness" appeared in "Super-Science Fiction," February 1957, pages 40 - 45. A Kiss for the Conqueror There is always a disparity of power between the conquered and the conqueror, a desire to exercise that power, to exert control, to exact revenge, in whatever small way one can. "A Kiss for the Conqueror" appeared in "Fantastic Science Fi...
2025-01-2737 min
Golden Age FictionBlind Play & The Statistomat Pitch, by Chandler DavisBlind Play Nick Pappas, hired-killer from Callisto, was strictly out for Pappas--out for Number One, as they used to say. And now those fools in the vanishing spaceship thought that number was up! "Blind Play" appeared in "Planet Stories," May 1951, pages 24 - 31. The Statistomat Pitch The Statistomat was no different from General Computer's Incomac when growing one's investments. So how could a new and small company compete with one of the largest and most well-funded companies in the country? Jed Borch, who had a modest estate to invest, wanted...
2025-01-2551 min
Golden Age FictionThe Man Who Could Work Miracles, by H G WellsMr. Fotheringay was a sceptic. He didn't believe in miracles, and he was going to prove it to Mr. Beamish, only... "The Man Who Could Work Miracles" appeared in "Tales of Space and Time," Harper & Brothers, London and New York, 1900, pages 325 - 358. Herbert George Wells (21 September 1866 – 13 August 1946) was an English writer. He wrote more than fifty novels and dozens of short stories. His non-fiction output included works of social commentary, politics, history, popular science, satire, biography, and autobiography. Wells' science fiction novels are so well regarded that he has been called the "father of science fi...
2025-01-2344 min
Golden Age FictionHow Deep the Grooves & The Wounded, by Philip José FarmerHow Deep the Grooves Dr. James Carroad was prepared to experiment on his own unborn son to demonstrate that he could condition unquestioning loyalty in potential citizens, removing certain freedoms. However, Nature, or God, or the universe, had beaten him by a long way.... "How Deep the Grooves" appeared in "Amazing Stories," February 1963, pages 106 - 117. The Wounded No one was supposed to be able to recognize him. But those damned polaroid glasses they give you at the 3D movies... "The Wounded" appeared in "Fantastic Universe," October 1954, pages 69 - 73.
2025-01-2146 min
Golden Age FictionThe Untouchable Adolescents, by Harlan EllisonThe aliens wouldn't accept help, though their world was about to explode. They were adolescents. Adolescence is the time when you aren't smart enough to ask for help.... "The Untouchable Adolescents" appeared in the February 1957 issue of "Super-Science Fiction" on pages 68 - 86. It was published under the pen name of "Ellis Hart", which Ellison used when publishing short stories. Harlan Jay Ellison (May 27, 1934 – June 28, 2018) was an American writer, known for his prolific and influential work in New Wave speculative fiction and for his outspoken, combative personality. His published works include more than 1,700 short stories, novellas, sc...
2025-01-1941 min
Golden Age FictionStopover Planet & The Space Between, by Robert E GilbertEarly morning deliveries were part of the Honeychile Bakery Service. But on this particular morning the bakery was collecting, not delivering! "Stopover Planet" appeared in "Imagination," August 1953, pages 132 - 140. Jak and Drusilla were on their way back to Earth, to the Wollongong Obstetric Hospital to be precise, for Drusilla had developed an acute case of pregnancy, when they were waylaid by ... pirates!? "The Space Between" appeared in "Planet Stories," Spring 1955, pages 60 - 66. Robert E. Gilbert (May 6, 1924 – April 4, 1993) was an American science fiction writer. Links Reaper: reaper.fm...
2025-01-1849 min
Golden Age FictionThe Diamond Lens, by Fitz-James O'BrienWhat was he prepared to do to pursue his life's ambition become the foremost microscopist? It turned out, almost anything. But what he discovered was to change, and ruin, his life. "The Diamond Lens" appeared first in "Atlantic Monthly," January 1858, pages 354 - 367, and later in "Amazing Stories," October 1933, pages 600 - 615. Fitz James O'Brien (also spelled Fitz-James; 25 October 1826 – 6 April 1862) was an Irish-American Civil War soldier, writer, and poet often cited as an early practitioner of science fiction. He wrote for the Home Journal, the New York Times, and the American Whig Review. His first imp...
2025-01-161h 03
Golden Age FictionInfiltration, by Algis Budrys & And Miles To Go Before I Sleep, by William F NolanInfiltration Werewolves don't necessarily conform to all the superstitions people have. They may even know fear... "Infiltration" appeared in "Infinity Science Fiction" October 1958, pages 114 - 123. Algirdas Jonas "Algis" Budrys (January 9, 1931 – June 9, 2008) was a Lithuanian-American science fiction author, editor, and critic. He was also known under the pen names Frank Mason, Alger Rome (in collaboration with Jerome Bixby), John A. Sentry, William Scarff, and Paul Janvier. He is best known for the influential 1960 novel Rogue Moon. Incorporating his family's experience, Budrys's fiction depicts isolated and damaged people and themes of identity, survival, an...
2025-01-1437 min
Golden Age FictionAll Cats are Gray, by Andre NortonSteena was background stuff, never out of her baggy shapeless gray space-alls, with the gray personality of the machines she minded. Her only companion was a gray cat called Bat. So when she told Cliff Moran, a down-on-his-luck spacer, that it was time to seek out the famed "Empress of Mars" and bring it into port, he had no choice but to take her seriously. Little did he know that he'd have two extra passengers, nor that this trip would change his life... "All Cats are Gray" appeared in "Fantastic Universe Science Fiction," August-September 1953, pages 129 - 134.
2025-01-1219 min
Golden Age FictionThe Missing Will, by Agatha ChristieViolet Marsh's uncle had written two wills—one public, one hidden—and challenged his niece, and his sole heir, to pit her educated wits against his uneducated wits and find the hidden will. Knowing that she was outmatched, Violet contacted an expert in solving riddles... "The Missing Will" appeared in "Blue Book Magazine," January 1925, pages 146 - 150. Dame Agatha Mary Clarissa Christie, Lady Mallowan, DBE (née Miller; 15 September 1890 – 12 January 1976) was an English writer known for her 66 detective novels and 14 short story collections, particularly those revolving around fictional detectives Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. She also wrote th...
2025-01-1025 min
Golden Age FictionThe Boomerang Circuit, by Murray LeinsterAdes has vanished! And kings, emperors and despots are annexing the planets Kim Rendell, matter-transmitter technician, inter-galactic criminal, and space explorer, and Dona, his wife and ship-mate, freed from the Sinab Empire. In his ship, the Starshine, Kim must investigate what has happened to Ades, and then devise a plan to free those planets from further tyranny... "The Boomerang Circuit" first appeared in "Thrilling Wonder Stories," June 1947, pages 11 - 37. It was later published as the third part of a full novel titled "The Last Spaceship" in 1949 by "Galaxy Publishing Corp." Murray Leinster (June 16, 1896 – June 8, 1975) was a...
2025-01-081h 59
Golden Age FictionThe Manless Worlds, by Murray LeinsterThe planet Sinab II has altered the fighting-beams to kill only men, and they're spreading across the First Galaxy by wiping out all the men on a planet, waiting until the women are desperate, and then re-colonizing it with their own men, creating the first Galactic Empire. The planet Ades is in line to be colonized and become part of the Sinab Empire. But Kim Rendell, matter-transmitter technician and inter-galactic criminal, has a plan to stop them... "The Manless Worlds" first appeared in "Thrilling Wonder Stories," February 1947, pages 11 - 35. It was later published as the second part o...
2025-01-071h 45
Golden Age FictionThe Disciplinary Circuit, by Murray LeinsterKim Rendell, matter-transmitter technician, has defied the government of Alphin III by nullifying the Disciplinary Circuit, the system used to keep the planet's citizens under control in a condition of virtual slavery. He is given a choice, stay on the planet as a blocked man with no access to any facilities the planet provides and suffering daily the increasing pain of the Disciplinary Circuit, or exile. Kim chooses a third option... "The Disciplinary Circuit" first appeared in "Thrilling Wonder Stories," Winter 1946, pages 44 - 63. It was later published as the first part of a full novel titled "The...
2025-01-061h 40
Golden Age FictionThe Eyes Have It & Beyond the Door, by Philip K DickA little whimsy, now and then, makes for good balance. You could find this type of humor anywhere, but only a topflight science-fictionist could have written this story, in just this way... "The Eyes Have It" appeared in "Science Fiction Stories," 1953, pages 128 - 130. Did you ever wonder at the lonely life the bird in a cuckoo clock has to lead—that it might possibly love and hate just as easily as a real animal of flesh and blood? Larry Thomas bought a cuckoo clock for his wife—without knowing the price he would have...
2025-01-0425 min
Golden Age FictionA Little Journey & Zero Hour, by Ray BradburyMrs. Bellowes, along with a lot of other older women, had paid good money to stay at Mr. Thirkell's Restorium and eventually on to the greatest adventure life could offer. But after yet another delay, she just had to take matters into her own hands... "A Little Journey" appeared in "Galaxy Science Fiction," August 1951, pages 152 - 158. The new game the children are playing is going to be the best game ever! It's called 'Invasion!' and their new friend, Drill, is helping them prepare for Zero Hour, when the game begins. "Zero Hour"...
2025-01-0142 min
Golden Age FictionThe Hanging Stranger, by Philip K DickEd Loyce was a practical man. He liked to fix things himself. And if he couldn't fix it himself, he'd call someone. When he saw what was hanging in the town square, and no one doing anything about it, he had to go and investigate... "The Hanging Stranger" appeared in "Science Fiction Adventures" magazine, December 1953, pages 122 - 136. Philip Kindred Dick (December 16, 1928 – March 2, 1982) was an American science fiction writer. He wrote 44 novels and about 121 short stories. His fiction explored philosophical and social questions such as the nature of reality, perception, human nature, and identity, and commonly fe...
2024-12-2935 min
Golden Age FictionThe Way Out, by Richard Rein SmithHow do you kill a man without killing him? This was the problem Colonel Donovan had to solve if Earth was to win the war against Antares. Suicide was not an option; the killing of one's own soldiers was just wrong. But a way had to be found to prevent captured soldiers from divulging information about the disposition of Earth's forces. "The Way Out" appeared in "Infinity Science Fiction," June 1958, pages 110 - 125. Richard Rein Smith (November 28 1930 – ) is an American science fiction writer, and a writer of novels in other genres under various pseudonyms, som...
2024-12-2643 min
Golden Age FictionTony and the Beetles, by Philip K DickThe Pas-udeti war-fleet had turned the flank of the human war-fleet, and, for the first time in a century, the humans were retreating. But this planet around Orion was Tony's home. He'd been born here. He had Pas-udeti friends. He'd known them for five years. They were building a model spaceport. Nothing would change... "Tony and the Beetles" appeared in "Orbit," December 1953, pages 60 - 71. Philip Kindred Dick (December 16, 1928 – March 2, 1982) was an American science fiction writer. He wrote 44 novels and about 121 short stories. His fiction explored philosophical and social questions such as the nature of reality, pe...
2024-12-2333 min
Golden Age FictionWest o' Mars, by Charles L FontenayDinner with Samlaan Britt at West o' Mars was the pinnacle of Peache's career, but he was determined to get to the truth of the rumors that surrounded the founding of West o' Mars. Peache believed that behind every man lies the influence of a woman. Influence, though, can take odd forms... "West o' Mars" appeared in "Infinity Science Fiction," April 1958, pages 110 - 125. Charles Louis Fontenay (March 17, 1917 – January 27, 2007) was an American journalist and science fiction writer. He wrote science fiction novels and short stories. Links Reaper: reaper.fm L...
2024-12-2041 min
Golden Age FictionWall of Crystal, Eye of Night, by Algis BudrysRufus Sollenar, creator of EmpaVid, a revolutionary entertainment system, had everything. However, the Special Public Relations Office of the International Association of Broadcasters needs to ensure that its members investements were safe, especially as Cortwright Burr, Sollenar's biggest competitor, recently visited the Martian engineers... "Wall of Crystal, Eye of Night" appeared in "Galaxy Magazine," December 1961, pages 110 - 131. Algirdas Jonas "Algis" Budrys (January 9, 1931 – June 9, 2008) was a Lithuanian-American science fiction author, editor, and critic. He was also known under the pen names Frank Mason, Alger Rome (in collaboration with Jerome Bixby), John A. Sentry, William Scarff, and Pau...
2024-12-1756 min
SFFaudioThe SFFaudio Podcast #817 - AUDIOBOOK/READALONG: The Last Space Ship by Murray Leinster
The SFFaudio Podcast #817 – The Last Space Ship by Murray Leinster – this is a fixup novel, made from three stories:
The Disciplinary Circuit, read by Phil Chenevert, 1 hour 35 minutes (for LibriVox)
The Manless Worlds, read by Vinny Lerin, 1 hour 43 minutes (for LibriVox)
The Boomerang Circuit, read by Paul Lawley-Jones, 1 hour 57 minutes (for Golden Age Fiction)
These are complete and unabridged readings of the three stories that make the one novel (totaling 5 hours 16 minutes) followed by a discussion of them and it. Participants in the discussion include Jesse, Maissa Bessada, Will Emmons, Terence Blak...
2024-12-1610h 10
Golden Age FictionNobody Saw the Ship, by Murray LeinsterIt was only a tiny scout ship from somewhere beyond the stars; only one alien creature occupied it. But the ship's mission spelled life to its fellow creatures and death to all living creatures on Earth. And against the super-science of the raider stood one terrified old man and his dog... "Nobody Saw The Ship" appeared in "Future combined with Science Fiction Stories," May-June 1950, pages 40 - 49 and 94 - 97. Murray Leinster (June 16, 1896 – June 8, 1975) was a pen name of William Fitzgerald Jenkins, an American writer of genre fiction, particularly of science fiction. He wrote and published more th...
2024-12-1450 min
Golden Age FictionThe Crystal Egg, by H G WellsIn a small grimy shop selling bric-a-brac and antiquities in Seven Dials, London, was a large crystal egg. The shop's proprietor, a Mr. C Cave, was reluctant to sell, even when offered the outrageous sum of five pounds! His step-family didn't understand; there was so much they could do with such a fortune! What was it about that crystal egg that prevented Mr. Cave from selling? "The Crystal Egg" appeared in "Tales of Space and Time," published in 1900 by Harper & Brothers, pages 1 - 33. Herbert George Wells (21 September 1866 – 13 August 1946) was an English writer. He wr...
2024-12-1049 min
Golden Age FictionEarth Transit, by Charles L FontenayWhen Captain Makki is found dead on a routine hop from Earth to Mars, there are only three suspects; Lefler, the astrogator, Taat, the ship's doctor, and Robwood, the engineer. One of them must have done it. But who? And why? "Earth Transit" appeared in "Infinity Science Fiction," September 1957, pages 18 - 33. Charles Louis Fontenay (March 17, 1917 – January 27, 2007) was an American journalist and science fiction writer. He wrote science fiction novels and short stories. Links Reaper: reaper.fm LibSyn: libsyn.com "Mesmerizing Galaxy" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Crea...
2024-12-0837 min
Golden Age FictionPrize Ship, by Philip K DickThe war with the Ganymedeans has been going on for two months, and Terra has been unable to use the launch cradles at Ganymede to send space ships to its colonies at Proxima Centauri. The colonists at Proxima Centauri are slowly starving, and Terra is about to capitulate to the Ganymedeans' demands. As a vote to capitulate is being taken in the Senate, an urgent message arrives; a new type of Ganymedean ship has been captured! General Groves, Commander Carmichel, Major Siller, and Dr. Basset volunteer to take it for a test flight to discover its secrets.
2024-12-0552 min
Golden Age FictionIn the Year 2889, by Jules Verne & Michel VerneAn account of a day in the busy life of Mr. Fritz Napoleon Smith, proprietor of the Earth Chronicle, specifically, September 25th, 2889, in the city of Centropolis. "In the Year 2889" appeared in "The Forum," February 1889, vol. 6, issue 6, pages 662 - 677. Jules Verne (8 February 1828 – 24 March 1905) was a French novelist, poet, and playwright. He has sometimes been called the "father of science fiction", a title that has also been given to H. G. Wells and Hugo Gernsback. His novels are generally set in the second half of the 19th century, taking into account the technological advances of the ti...
2024-12-0242 min
Golden Age FictionSkit-tree Planet, by Murray LeinsterThe skit-trees grew in neat rows as far as the eye could see. There were dams and irrigation systems, graded and terraced ground, and large clearings where, it was supposed, the cities in which lived those who planted the skit-trees would have been. But where were they? What had happened to them? Not one artifact, not one shaped rock or piece of metal remained. And why did the radio keep picking up static on a supposedly uninhabited planet? Wentworth and Haynes, part of the Extra-Solarian Research Institute expedition team, were about to find out... "Skit-tree...
2024-11-2946 min
Golden Age FictionThe Star, by H G WellsSomething had caused Neptune to act erratically as it orbited far out in the solar system. And that something was coming nearer. Would it collide with the Earth? No one knew, although speculation abounded. Closer and closer it came, brightening the night skies across the globe. As the new star passed close to Jupiter, it's direction changed. Where would it end up? And what effect would it have on the Earth? "The Star" appeared in "Tales of Space and Time," published by Harper & Brothers, 1900, pages 37 - 57. Herbert George Wells (21 September 1866 – 13 August 1946) was an English writer. He...
2024-11-2632 min
Golden Age FictionIntroducing Golden Age FictionWelcome to Golden Age Fiction. My name is Paul and in this podcast, I will be introducing you to, and narrating, stories from the golden age of pulp fiction magazines. This is generally considered to be from the last two decades of the 19th century to around the middle of the 20th century. Evolving from the earlier dime novels and boys' magazines, there were a plethora of these pulp fiction magazines, of varying quality, in a wide selection of genres, printed on cheap pulp paper, appearing on mostly US newsstands, during that period. E...
2024-11-2303 min
Strange New Worlds And Spaced Out TalesEp.16 Single Point of FailureEpisode 16 - Single Point of Failure
A farcical Sci-Fi comedy crime caper.
It was supposed to be a simple kidnapping. But when a hapless criminal gang ends up abducting the wrong man by mistake, everything begins to fall apart.
Written by Jim Cogan
And starred
John Kennard as Chief
Stephen Newhand as Bungle
Jim Cogan as Tech
Wojciech Matras as Wheels
Joe Kilcar as Dobbs
2024-03-1336 min
Strange New Worlds And Spaced Out TalesEp14 - The Beast From UranusEpisode 14 - The Beast From Uranus
An authentically produced comedy parody of a 1950s Sci-Fi Radio Play, complete with crackly audio, outdated sexist attitudes, gratuitous mansplaining, and loaded to the gunwales with as many innuendos as we could manage.
The crew of the USS Penetrator, the most advanced spaceship ever built, undertake their maiden voyage - to probe Uranus for signs of an incredible energy source that could revolutionise human technology.
But they find something far more dangerous waiting for them in the murky...
2024-02-281h 03
Strange New Worlds And Spaced Out TalesEp10 Heaven's RevolversEpisode 10 – Heaven's Revolvers
In an alternate reality, the Old West frontier meets space-age alien tech.
An aging gunslinger rolls into the town of Haven, but trouble is never far away...
Written by Taimoor Azam
With editing and proofing by Paul Lawley-Jones
Starred
Stephen Newhand as Sandman Jack
Marie Grace as Felicity Fellowfelt
Joe Kilcar as Levi Sundland
Cisco De Guzman as Joshua Stella
Sage Crossley as the Maid
Qu...
2024-01-3138 min
Strange New Worlds And Spaced Out TalesEp9 Dept of Motor VehiclesEpisode 9 – Dept of Motor Vehicles
A seemingly endless queue brings three unwitting individuals together. But now they can't remember why they're even there....
Written by Stephen Newhand
Cast
Anna Gasecka as Stephanie
Joe Kilcar as Samual
Paul Lawley-Jones as Richard
Kat McQueen as Fran
John Kennard as Eli
Production and Sound Design were by Jim Cogan
Opening Theme Music by Jim Cogan
Incidental music and sound effects licensed from Env...
2024-01-2425 min