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Astounding Stories, August, 1931

Various

"Astounding Stories" by Various is a collection of science fiction stories written in the early 20th century. This magazine issue features a variety of tales, revolving predominantly around themes of adventure, exploration, and encounters with extraordinary beings in unfamiliar settings. Among the notable characters is George Abbot, a young scientist who faces perilous challenges as he explores the depths of the Pacific Ocean within his bathysphere. The opening of this magazine presents "The Danger from the Deep," where George Abbot becomes trapped at the ocean floor after his cables are severed and goes from being an intrigued explorer to a scientist confronting imminent peril. Left in a steel sphere with dwindling oxygen and even colder temperatures pressing in, he recognizes that he is not alone but is being watched by intelligent, humanoid fish—man-sharks—that may have ulterior motives. As he desperately attempts to survive and document his findings, Abbot's journey leads him into a deeper realm of discovery, intrigue, and the realization of the existence of a hidden world beneath the waves. The narrative captures a blend of scientific curiosity and the terror of the unknown, drawing readers into a thrilling underwater adventure. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Brood of the Dark Moon - (A Sequel to "Dark Moon")

Charles Willard Diffin

"Brood of the Dark Moon" by Charles Willard Diffin is a science fiction novel likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows Chet Bullard, a Master Pilot, who finds himself in a fierce battle for survival alongside his friends Walt Harkness and Diane Delacouer. The trio becomes embroiled in a conflict against Schwartzmann, a treacherous antagonist with designs on their space exploration adventure to the mysterious, dangerous Dark Moon. The opening of the story sets the stage in a futuristic hospital in Vienna, introducing Chet as he regains consciousness from a near-fatal injury he sustained while attempting to rescue Diane during their prior adventures. As he begins to gather his memories, he recognizes the larger threat posed by Schwartzmann, who has been out to sabotage their efforts and seize control of their fascinating discoveries. With Walt concealed in the shadows, planning their next move, the tension escalates as they prepare to battle not just for their return to the Dark Moon, but also for their very lives against Schwartzmann's nefarious plans. The reader is drawn into a complex web of adventure, friendship, and intrigue that frames the journey ahead. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Seed of the Arctic Ice

Harry Bates

"Seed of the Arctic Ice" by H.G. Winter is a science fiction novel published in the early 20th century. The narrative follows the character Kenneth Torrance, a torpooner aboard the whaling submarine "Narwhal", as he embarks on a thrilling underwater adventure in pursuit of killer whales beneath the Arctic ice. The story delves into themes of survival, exploration, and encounters with intelligent marine life. The plot centers around Ken Torrance, who, while hunting killer whales for their valuable oil, becomes embroiled in an unexpected struggle for survival when he is captured by a mysterious group of seal-like creatures that exhibit human-like intelligence. The narrative unfolds Ken's desperate quest for escape and his attempts to communicate with his captors, who he realizes are the descendants of human-like beings adapted to life in the ocean. Ultimately, the tale reflects both the perils of underwater hunting and the wonder of discovering intelligent life in unexpected forms, culminating in an intense battle for freedom as Ken fights against time and the harsh Arctic environment to reunite with his fellow crew members. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Astounding Stories, June, 1931

Various

"Astounding Stories, June, 1931" by Various is a collection of science fiction stories published during the early 20th century. This anthology features tales of adventure, speculative concepts, and imaginative worlds, showcasing works from notable writers of the time. The collection explores themes of time travel, extraordinary beings, and elements of futuristic technology, appealing to fans of speculative fiction and adventure narratives. The opening of "Astounding Stories" presents two notable tales. The first, "The Man from 2071" by Sewell Peaslee Wright, introduces Commander John Hanson, who encounters Jacob Harbauer, a man claiming to have traveled from the past into the future. Their interaction reveals Harbauer's unique scientific theories about time and sets the stage for tension as Harbauer’s true intentions come to light. His aspirations to seize power in his own era generate intrigue as he becomes increasingly dangerous. Meanwhile, the second story, "Manape the Mighty" by Arthur J. Burks, focuses on Lee Bentley, a survivor of a shipwreck who quickly realizes he must navigate a perilous jungle populated by enormous apes and mystery. The initial moments establish a contrast between human struggle and the raw power of nature, hinting at an adventure filled with danger and the unknown. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Astounding Stories, July, 1931

Various

"Astounding Stories, July, 1931" by Various is a collection of science fiction tales written in the early 20th century. This anthology features imaginative narratives that delve into the realms of adventure, alien encounters, and extraordinary technologies, reflecting the burgeoning genre of science fiction during the time. Among the stories, one particularly stands out, which follows Dan McNally, a resilient sailor whose journey leads him to a mysterious island filled with peril and scientific marvels. The opening of the anthology introduces readers to Dan McNally, the captain of the trading schooner "Virginia", as he receives a distress signal from an uncharted island. Amidst the tropical backdrop, he encounters a green ray of mysterious energy that leads to the catastrophic destruction of his ship, leaving him as the sole survivor. As he swims to shore, Dan discovers a bizarre machine atop the island that is somehow linked to Mars. Encounters with both an advanced civilization and treacherous mechanical beings unfold, culminating in a tense battle against overwhelming odds and an exploration of humanity's fate in the face of a looming extraterrestrial threat. This gripping start sets the tone for the imaginative adventures in this collection, promising readers thrilling escapism into uncharted worlds. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Astounding Stories of Super-Science, December 1930

Various

"Astounding Stories of Super-Science, December 1930" by Various is a collection of science fiction short stories likely compiled during the early 20th century. The anthology features vivid and imaginative tales centered around themes of science, adventure, and the fantastic, appealing to readers with an interest in speculative fiction. The stories are penned by leading writers of the time, promising a range of thrilling narratives that delve into extraordinary scientific hypotheses and surreal scenarios. The opening of the anthology presents a story titled "Slaves of the Dust" by Sophie Wenzel Ellis, which features Hale Oakham, a young scientist on a quest to uncover the secrets of a mysterious Brazilian tribe called the Ungapuks. The narrative introduces us to Hale as he navigates the foreboding jungle and encounters magical elements, suggesting deep themes of life, death, and the interplay between science and nature. The tension escalates with the appearance of Sir Basil Addington, an eccentric figure whose experiments in biochemistry have transformed the Ungapuks and led to the creation of bizarre creatures. As Hale becomes entwined in Addington's cryptic operations, the story hints at a convoluted struggle between scientific ambition and moral implications, leaving readers eager for the unfolding drama. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Astounding Stories, May, 1931

Various

"Astounding Stories, May, 1931" by Various is a collection of science fiction stories published in early 20th century (specifically the early 1930s). The magazine features a series of imaginative and thrilling narratives, showcasing brave characters who embark on extraordinary adventures through space, encountering mysterious celestial phenomena and dangerous creatures. The opening of "Astounding Stories" introduces readers to a vivid future where airships dominate the skies and characters like Walter Harkness are involved in groundbreaking transportation and explorations. In this first chapter, Harkness, a young entrepreneur, faces a catastrophic tsunami and financial ruin, yet learns of a mysterious new satellite dubbed the "Dark Moon" that has joined the Earth’s orbit. This new development forces him to confront both personal and external threats as he seeks to explore the Dark Moon with his pilot Chet Bullard, setting the stage for a gripping adventure amidst unforeseen challenges. The narrative combines elements of suspense, exploration, and the potential for discovery, drawing readers into its fantastical world. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Astounding Stories, April, 1931

Various

"Astounding Stories, April 1931" by Various is a collection of science fiction short stories probably written in the early 20th century. This anthology showcases imaginative tales that delve into themes of space exploration, the unknown, and futuristic adventures, featuring narratives such as the journey of Earth men to Mars in "Monsters of Mars" by Edmond Hamilton, and the introduction of robots in "The Exile of Time" by Ray Cummings. Each story captivates with vivid scenarios that blend adventure with speculative technology. The opening of the book introduces two captivating stories. In "Monsters of Mars," physicist Milton invites his friend Allan Randall to join him and Lanier on an unprecedented journey to Mars via a revolutionary matter-transmitter. This teleporter serves as the bridge that defies traditional space travel, allowing them to leap through dimensions. Meanwhile, "The Exile of Time" begins in the strange setting of 1935 New York City, where George Rankin and his friend Larry Gregory encounter a mysterious girl, Mary Atwood. She claims to have traveled from 1777 and witnessed a mechanical entity abduct her into a time-traveling cage. Both narratives excite readers with themes of adventure, discovery, and tension, setting the stage for thrilling escapades that blend imagination with notions of science. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Fifth-Dimension Tube

Murray Leinster

"The Fifth-Dimension Tube" by Murray Leinster is a science fiction novelette written in the early 20th century. The story follows Tommy Reames, Professor Denham, and his daughter Evelyn as they explore a newly built device capable of transporting them to a mysterious and dangerous Fifth-Dimensional world filled with bizarre creatures and the lurking threat of the Ragged Men. The narrative blends elements of adventure and suspense as the team faces the unforeseen consequences of their scientific endeavors. The opening of the novelette introduces readers to the chaotic lab filled with excitement and trepidation as the characters activate the Fifth-Dimension Tube. With mounting tension, Tommy and Denham prepare to traverse this unknown dimension, while Evelyn displays a mix of enthusiasm and fear. As they interact with the Tube, unforeseen circumstances lead to the emergence of threats from the other world, foreshadowing the chaos yet to unfold. The scene sets the stage for a thrilling adventure, heightening the anticipation of the characters' journey into a world filled with both wonder and peril. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Hawk Carse

Anthony Gilmore

"Hawk Carse" by Anthony Gilmore is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the character Hawk Carse, a daring space adventurer known for his lawless exploits and formidable prowess in the treacherous frontiers of space. It explores themes of survival, vengeance, and the Clash between law and anarchy as Carse confronts dangerous foes in a richly imagined universe. The opening of the story introduces readers to Hawk Carse as he journeys to Iapetus, a satellite of Saturn, to collect valuable horn from a creature called phanti. As he nears his destination, he learns that his ranch has been besieged and overrun by pirates under the infamous Judd the Kite, a one-time enemy. Carse rushes to rescue his men, who have been slaughtered in the attack, and he grapples with the implications of loss and betrayal. The beginning sets the stage for a high-stakes confrontation between Carse and the pirates, leading to a deadly showdown that intertwines elements of adventure with the grim realities of the lives of traders in space. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Passing of Ku Sui

Anthony Gilmore

"The Passing of Ku Sui" by Anthony Gilmore is a science fiction novelette written in the early 20th century. The story is centered around the dramatic conflict between Captain Hawk Carse and the sinister scientist Dr. Ku Sui, who has devised a way to control the brains of five great Earth scientists. As Carse seeks to thwart Ku Sui's nefarious plans, he is joined by his companions, including Master Scientist Eliot Leithgow, in a thrilling adventure that spans the solar system. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Hawk Carse, who is recovering from the aftermath of his last encounter with Ku Sui. His friends, Leithgow and Friday, anxiously await his return after he embarks on a perilous mission against Ku Sui, who is alive and plotting with enhanced powers. As Carse reunites with his friends, he reveals the ongoing threats posed by Ku Sui, including the existence of a hidden asteroid where the sinister scientist conducts his experiments. The opening sets a tense atmosphere filled with anticipation, as Carse outlines his plans to confront Ku Sui and free the trapped scientists’ consciousnesses from their eerie captivity, establishing a gripping backdrop for the ensuing action and drama. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Red Hell of Jupiter

Paul Ernst

"The Red Hell of Jupiter" by Paul Ernst is a science fiction novelette written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of Jupiter’s mysterious and menacing "Red Spot," the story follows Captain Brand Bowen and his companion Lieutenant Dex Harlow as they embark on a perilous mission to investigate the disappearance of several previous expeditions. As they delve deeper into the enigma of the red area, they encounter bizarre alien life forms and face deadly challenges while trying to uncover the dark secrets hidden within Jupiter. At the start of the narrative, Captain Bowen is recalled from leave by Commander Stone due to the troubling mystery surrounding the ominous red spot on Jupiter, where several ships have vanished without a trace. Bowen, determined to find out what has happened to his comrades, prepares for an emergency flight with his trusted companion Harlow. Their entrance into Jupiter's atmosphere leads them into an unexpected situation where they are irresistibly drawn toward the red spot. Ultimately, they encounter the alien Rogans—repulsive, pipe-like creatures who enslave their own kind and pose a grave threat to the Earthmen's lives. The opening chapters set the stage for a thrilling tale of adventure, danger, and the struggle for survival amidst the hostile environment of outer space. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Astounding Stories of Super-Science January 1931

Various

"Astounding Stories of Super-Science January 1931" by Various is a collection of science fiction stories published during the early 20th century. This anthology features a range of imaginative narratives set in futuristic or otherworldly contexts, showcasing adventures that explore themes of space exploration, extraterrestrial life, and advanced technology. Readers can expect exciting tales that push the boundaries of scientific possibilities and human courage." "The opening of the collection introduces "The Dark Side of Antri" by Sewell Peaslee Wright, where Commander John Hanson reflects on his past adventures in the Special Patrol Service. A young officer visits him to discuss historical weapons and the challenges faced during his time. As Hanson reminisces, he recalls his experiences with his friend, Officer Anderson Croy. The narrative quickly transitions into a high-stakes emergency call from the planet Antri, where the two must deal with a dark threat emerging from the uninhabited side of the planet that could signify doom for its inhabitants. The storyline sets the stage for an intense adventure in an unknown world, where courage and determination will be tested against formidable adversities." (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Astounding Stories, March, 1931

Various

"Astounding Stories, March, 1931" by Various is a collection of speculative fiction short stories written in the early 20th century. The collection features diverse tales that explore themes of adventure, science, and the unknown, often showcasing unexpected twists and imaginative scenarios typical of early science fiction. Notable stories in this issue include "When the Mountain Came to Miramar," which follows Garry Connell as he encounters prehistoric savages and unearths ancient secrets, and "Beyond the Vanishing Point," where characters are drawn into a miniature world within an atom of gold. At the start of the collection, "When the Mountain Came to Miramar" introduces Garry Connell, who witnesses an earthquake that uncovers a hidden passage within Sentinel Mountain. As he climbs the mountain to investigate, he stumbles upon a carved entrance and finds relics of an ancient civilization. The narrative intensifies as he grapples with both the eerie atmosphere and the discovery of skeletal remains, setting the stage for a confrontation that awakens not only the physical threats within the mountain but also the deep-seated fears tied to humanity's past and present. Throughout, Connell faces savage beings as well as the strange allure of a mystical heritage linked to lost civilizations. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Astounding Stories, February, 1931

Various

"Astounding Stories, February, 1931" by Various is a collection of science fiction short stories written in the early 20th century. This magazine features thrilling tales filled with adventure, science, and imagination, showcasing the works of various authors in the genre. The opening portion introduces readers to a world embroiled in futuristic warfare, focusing on the struggles between America and the United Slavs, with gripping narratives of pilots and their aerial combat missions. The opening of this issue begins with "Werewolves of War" by D. W. Hall, where Captain Lance navigates the perilous skies in a high-stakes battle against enemy forces. As he battles to survive after noticing that his squadron has been set up for ambush, Lance grapples with suspicions about a spy among them. His tense encounters unfold as he confronts not only enemy planes but also the treachery that may lie closer to home. The narrative sets the scene for a series of ultimately perilous confrontations, establishing both character conflict and the overarching themes of loyalty and sacrifice that permeate through the stories within this collection. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Slaves of Mercury

Nathan Schachner

"Slaves of Mercury" by Nathan Schachner is a science fiction novelette written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows Hilary Grendon, a space explorer who returns to Earth after a long journey only to find it under the oppressive rule of alien invaders known as Mercutians. The story explores themes of resilience, rebellion, and the longing for freedom as Hilary discovers the grave fate of his fellow Earthmen and the plight of his beloved, Joan. The opening of "Slaves of Mercury" introduces Hilary Grendon as he returns home after five years in space, filled with nostalgia and hope to reunite with Joan and present his adventures to President Amos Peabody. However, his reunion is marred by the shock of discovering humans living in fear, as he witnesses a blind man bound to a seat and the unresponsive demeanor of those around him. As he attempts to help the victim, the local population reacts with fright, highlighting the merciless power the Mercutians hold over Earth. The tension escalates further with the introduction of a giant Mercutian guard, revealing a disturbing state of affairs on the planet and setting the stage for Hilary's fight against the alien oppression, including a personal mission to rescue Joan from the clutches of the Mercutians. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Two Thousand Miles Below

Charles Willard Diffin

"Two Thousand Miles Below" by Charles Willard Diffin is a science fiction novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around an ambitious mining engineer, Dean Rawson, and his daring pursuit of harnessing geothermal energy from the depths of the Earth. The narrative kicks off with a blend of adventure and prehistoric creatures, exploring themes of survival, technology, and ancient legends. The opening of the novel introduces us to Gor, a primitive man, as he faces an impending disaster in a cold, stormy land and proposes to lead his tribe into the depths of the Earth to escape it. The story swiftly shifts to Dean Rawson, who is navigating the extreme heat of the Tonah Basin, revealing his aspirations to tap into the Earth's energy for powering modern civilization. His encounter with Smithy, a chance meeting under dire circumstances in the desert, sets the stage for their budding partnership as they prepare to face both the natural elements and unforeseen dangers lurking within the Earth. The start of the novel blends elements of adventure, survival instinct, and fantastical encounters that offer a tantalizing glimpse into a world where ancient fears and modern ambitions collide. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Astounding Stories of Super-Science, November, 1930

Various

"Astounding Stories of Super-Science, November, 1930" by Various is a collection of science fiction narratives written in the early 20th century. The anthology explores themes of futuristic technology, interplanetary conflicts, and bizarre life forms, with stories that range from military failure against unknown threats to interstellar communication. The tales feature various characters, including scientists and heroes confronting extraordinary challenges in a speculative world. The opening of the collection presents a story titled "The Wall of Death" by Victor Rousseau. It begins in a post-apocalyptic future where humanity faces annihilation at the hands of grotesque, half-human jelly-like creatures known as Earth Giants, which have emerged from Antarctica. The protagonists, Kay Bevan and Cliff Hynes, are forced to reckon with the reality of their military defeat and moral dilemmas regarding an annual sacrifice of citizens to the monsters. As they struggle to develop a device capable of neutralizing the threat, personal stakes heighten with Kay's deepening feelings for his love interest, Ruth Deane. The harrowing situation unfolds in a landscape filled with despair and looming terror, setting the stage for a gripping tale of survival and sacrifice. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Astounding Stories of Super-Science, October, 1930

Various

"Astounding Stories of Super-Science, October, 1930" by Various is a collection of science fiction short stories written in the early 20th century. The anthology includes thrilling tales that explore themes of scientific innovation and futuristic adventures, featuring characters like Dr. Bird, a scientific sleuth, and Operative Carnes, as they investigate mysterious brain-stealing criminals in the story "Stolen Brains." The opening of the collection introduces us to Dr. Bird and Operative Carnes, who are heading to a fishing lodge in Maine, ostensibly to recuperate from work but are soon pulled into a mystery involving cases of amnesia linked to significant figures. As they delve deeper into the woods, they encounter lookalike doubles and sinister plots that lead them to an underground laboratory run by a villainous dwarf, Slavatsky, who is abducting notable intellectuals to extract a mysterious substance known as menthium. This riveting start sets the stage for an adventure filled with suspense, science, and intrigue. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Astounding Stories of Super-Science, June, 1930

Various

"Astounding Stories of Super-Science, June, 1930" is a collection of science fiction stories edited by Harry Bates and published during the early 20th century. This magazine showcases imaginative tales of adventure, technology, and speculative science, characteristic of the genre's burgeoning popularity during this period. Each story delves into extraordinary and often fantastical concepts, allowing readers to engage with themes that challenge the boundaries of reality and explore human ingenuity and survival against various otherworldly challenges. The opening portion introduces a gripping narrative titled "Out of the Dreadful Depths" by C. D. Willard, which follows the young adventurer Robert Thorpe. He embarks on an impulsive journey across the Pacific Ocean, betting his friend that he can navigate a small sloop on his own. Shortly into his voyage, he encounters an abandoned ship, the "Minnie R.", and discovers eerie signs of a terrifying force that has claimed the lives of its crew. As Thorpe investigates the abandoned vessel, he unravels a mystery fraught with danger, including strange sightings of an unseen threat, which hints at an underlying horror lurking in the depths of the ocean. This suspenseful opening sets the stage for a thrilling exploration of fear, adventure, and the unknown in the realms of oceanic science fiction. (This is an automatically generated summary.)