Showing results by author "Murray Leinster" in All Categories

Humans have expanded to myriad worlds throughout the galaxies but they have found that the only way for colonies to be self-sustaining was to reproduce the total ecology of their home world; the original Earth. This meant bringing the entire ecosystem, the good, the bad, and the ugly. Viruses as well as grass, goats as well as stink bugs, and allowing the whole mixture to ultimately produce an inhabitable world for humans. But what happens when this system is not properly supervised?

Harry Shaw performs this classic science fiction from master writer Murray Leinster. Something lurks in the depths of the Luzon Deep off the Philippine Islands. Something unearthly. Perhaps sinister. Entire ships disappear. Schools of fish go mad. Denizens of the deep come to the surface, perhaps on a mission. But from what? And why? Radar expert Terry Holt and the crew of the Esperance seek answers to these questions, and perhaps don’t want to the know the truth.

In a future where humanity has colonized countless worlds across the galaxies, the key to sustainable colonies lies in recreating the complete ecology of their original home Earth. This ambitious endeavor involves transplanting everything from vibrant flora to pesky pests, creating a delicate balance that must be carefully managed. But what happens when that balance is disrupted? Join Moran and the crew aboard the space yacht Nadine as they stumble upon a mysterious world that has been brewing chaos for over a century. Can they survive the unpredictable and perilous environment that threatens ...

Bron, the reluctant heir to a notorious lineage of space pirates, dreams of a life as an electronic engineer. However, fate has other plans, as each attempt to escape his familys shadow pulls him deeper into a whirlwind of misadventures. Join Bron on a witty and whimsical space journey reminiscent of Harry Harrisons Stainless Steel Rat. Originally published in the February-April issues of Astounding Science Fiction in 1959. (Summary by Elliott Miller)

If you enjoyed The Mad Planet by Murray Leinster, youre in for a treat with its thrilling sequel. Set in a distant future where colossal insects and gigantic fungi dominate the landscape, humanity is struggling to adapt to this transformed world. Our courageous hero, Burl, returns to face an even more formidable threat than before. The monstrous insects are still lurking, but the true horror lies in the deadly Red Dust that endangers the very survival of the human race. Prepare to be captivated by this extraordinary tale as Burl confronts unimaginable challenges. Burl raised his spear and ...

When the blue plague swept across the planet Dara, it ignited a wave of fear that rippled through nearby worlds. This fear morphed into a dangerous hatred, threatening the lives of millions and putting the fragile Galactic peace at risk. (Summary by Gutenberg text)

In a shocking turn of events, an unidentified spaceship descends into a serene Colorado lake, unleashing a terrifying paralyzing ray weapon. As the creatures from beyond begin abducting humans, a determined land surveyor and a tenacious journalist find themselves trapped within an Army cordon that is powerless against this enigmatic foe. Will they uncover the aliens sinister motives and thwart their plans before its too late? (Summary by Mark Nelson)

Dive into the captivating realm of science fiction with Nightmare Planet, where timeless tales of adventure and exploration await. Celebrated stories like Murray Leinsters The Mad Planet and Red Dust have enchanted readers for nearly a century, and now they are being revived for a new audience. In this latest addition to the series, Leinster crafts a thrilling narrative featuring the beloved character Burl, as he embarks on extraordinary adventures amidst vibrant landscapes. This installment not only entertains but also weaves in profound philosophical and psychological insights, elevating the...

Join Space Medical Service officer Calhoun and his trusty sidekick Murgatroyd the tormal as they embark on an exhilarating adventure! What was supposed to be a routine visit to the planet Maya quickly turns into a mystery when they discover the planet is eerily devoid of all life. Will they uncover the secrets hidden within this desolate world? - Summary by Mark Nelson

Moklins are the most amiable aliens humans have ever met, overflowing with admiration for humanity and eager to mirror our ways. After four decades of coexistence on their planet, the few humans remaining enjoy a unique bond with these endearing people. However, a seemingly minor issue looms on the horizon‚Aîone that could send the humans packing in a hurry. And even if they do leave, will it truly change anything? - Summary by phil chenevert

Join young Ed McCauley on an exhilarating journey through the cosmos in MEN INTO SPACE, where the thrilling saga of humanitys quest to conquer the stars unfolds. From the innovative rockets of today to the ambitious development of the Space Platform and advanced spaceships, witness the remarkable evolution of space exploration. Experience the excitement of the first successful landings on the Moon, Mars, and beyond, all through Eds adventurous eyes. Prepare to be captivated by the wonder and daring spirit of the Space Age!

The significance of any situation often hinges on your perspective. Consider the difference between labeling an event as a riot versus a war‚Aîits subtle yet profound. What if someone were to steal a spaceship? The local police are well-equipped to handle that. And a malfunctioning freighter in a remote solar system? Just another day at the office. But when a group of misguided individuals attempts to incite a war? Well, thats just routine for the seasoned officers of the Empire Police. In this captivating tale, the brilliant mind of Murray Leinster explores an Earth empire that has evolved...

In a chilling broadcast from nowhere, sinister signals flood in from the depths of space, wreaking havoc on any receiver they touch. How can Earth defend itself against such a malevolent force? Set in the distant future of 1972, at a top-secret military installation, Staff Sergeant Bellews stands at the forefront of an extraordinary scientific breakthrough a method that allows ordinary machines‚Aîlike vacuums and lawnmowers‚Aîto learn and perfect their tasks over time. But when these strange transmissions begin to sabotage his machines, Bellews is suddenly drawn into a battle he never ...

Life as a Med Service officer may seem monotonous, darting from one human-inhabited planet to another aboard a small ship with only a furry companion for company. Yet, excitement lurks just beneath the surface. In this gripping tale, Calhoun and Mugratroid find themselves crash-landed on a plague-infested world, hunted and facing grave danger. As they navigate this perilous landscape filled with surviving plague victims, they must rely on their resourcefulness and resilience. Will they emerge unscathed? Join us for a thrilling adventure that proves life in the Med Service is anything but dull!

Dive into another captivating tale from Murray Leinster, where the busy Med Ship is called into action to unravel a perplexing situation on the planet Pheydra. As a mysterious plea for medical assistance arrives, the crew faces an unusual dilemma a war is brewing, but the idea of inter-planetary conflict seems utterly absurd. With time running out, our protagonist and Mergatroid must navigate a chaotic landscape where children are pitted against their parents in a strange battle. Join them as they uncover the truth behind this extraordinary crisis. - Summary by phil c

Imagine a creature born from the fierce union of a spitting cobra and a wildcat, painted in striking tan-and-blue, endowed with hydrophobia and a murderous instinct‚Aîwelcome to the world of the sphex. This is the reality faced by rugged adventurer Hyugens, who embarks on an audacious mission to illegally colonize the unforgiving planet of Loren Two. Joined by his loyal companions Sitka Pete, Sourdough Charley, and Faro Nell (along with her young son Nugget), as well as massive, intelligent Kodiak bears bred for loyalty, and his trained giant eagle Semper, Hyugens must confront the dangers ...

Dive into three captivating tales from Murray Leinster, originally published by Galaxy Magazine as one novel, The Last Spaceship. In The Disciplinary Circuit, a society under constant surveillance ensures that thoughts remain pure and aligned with the councils vision for the greater good. Are you a good citizen? In The Manless Worlds, a sinister empire targets men across the galaxy, using death rays to solidify their control while leaving women to occupy the conquered planets. Can the courageous crew of the Starshine thwart their plans at planet Ades and restore balance? Lastly, in The ...

Set 30,000 years after a cataclysmic shift in Earths climate, Mad Planet explores a world where massive carbon dioxide emissions have reshaped the environment and decimated human and animal populations. Those few humans who survived live in ignorance of the advanced civilization that once thrived, while insects and fungi flourish in this new landscape. At the heart of the story is Burl, a young man from a small tribal community, whose quest for food and adventure leads him beyond familiar territory. Driven by a desire to impress Saya, the intriguing young woman of his tribe, Burl embarks on an...

Join Dr. Calhoun and his loyal pet tormal, Murgatroyd, as they embark on a perilous journey with the Interstellar Medical Service, conducting public health inspections on distant colonial planets. Upon arriving at Tallien Three, they are met with a shocking rocket attack by the Paras‚Aîmutated humans threatening to overtake the ‚Aúnormals.‚Aù While the locals believe they are facing a pandemic of demonic possession, Calhoun suspects a more sinister truth. As he races against time to avoid becoming a Para himself‚Aîor falling victim to their deadly intentions‚Aîhe must uncover ...

On a once-forgotten planet that was meticulously seeded with life, the story unfolds as the descendants of a crashed spaceship struggle for survival. Initially inhabited by microbes, plants, and insects, the planets ecosystem has evolved drastically, giving rise to colossal flora and fauna. In this thrilling tale, survivors face off against wolf-sized ants, chicken-sized flies, and enormous flying wasps, navigating a world where nature has taken a wild turn. (Summary by Wikipedia)