Boyd Larkin has been living on Mars for seven years, trading minerals for agricultural use with the native Martians. The planet is in a state of decline due to the depletion of essential minerals in the soil. Larkin has managed to gain the trust of the Martians, particularly Seekin, by trading minerals for precious Martian opals. Unexpectedly,...More
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Robert Moore Williams was an esteemed American writer known for his captivating science fiction tales. Born on June 19, 1907, in Farmington, Missouri, Williams discovered his passion for storytelling early on. After graduating from the Missouri School of Journalism in 1931, he embarked on a remarkable career that would span decades. Williams made his debut in the science fiction realm with the publication of "Zero as a Limit" in Astounding Science Fiction in 1937. Under the pseudonym "Robert Moore," he introduced readers to his unique narrative style and imaginative worlds. From that point forward, his literary output was ceaseless, captivating readers with his vivid imagination and thought-provoking ideas. His final novel was published in...More
Robert Moore Williams was an esteemed American writer known for his captivating science fiction tales. Born on June 19, 1907, in Farmington, Missouri, Williams discovered his passion for storytelling early on. After graduating from the Missouri School of Journalism in 1931, he embarked on a remarkable career that would span decades. Williams made his debut in the science fiction realm with the publication of "Zero as a Limit" in Astounding Science Fiction in 1937. Under the pseudonym "Robert Moore," he introduced readers to his unique narrative style and imaginative worlds. From that point forward, his literary output was ceaseless, captivating readers with his vivid imagination and thought-provoking ideas. His final novel was published in 1972, marking the culmination of a prolific career. Among his notable works is the "Jongor" series, which first enthralled readers in the pages of Fantastic Adventures during the 1940s and 1950s. The series eventually found its way into book form in 1970, cementing Williams' reputation as a master storyteller. By the 1960s, he had already penned over 150 stories, leaving an indelible mark on the science fiction genre.
Book Summary
Boyd Larkin has been living on Mars for seven years, trading minerals for agricultural use with the native Martians. The planet is in a state of decline due to the depletion of essential minerals in the soil. Larkin has managed to gain the trust of the Martians, particularly Seekin, by trading minerals for precious Martian opals. Unexpectedly, three Earthmen led by a man named Docker arrive on Mars with plans to take over the distribution of mineral fertilizers. Docker is aggressive and dismissive of Martian customs. He seeks Larkin's assistance in winning the Martians' trust, implying that they'll cut him in on the deal. Larkin refuses and leaves the Earthmen's ship, determined to face the uncertain situation in the Martian city. Trouble is brewing as the Earthmen aim to assert control over Martian resources, and Larkin is caught in the middle of a power struggle that could have dire consequences for both him and the Martians.