The Dope on Mars By: Jack Sharkey (1931-)
The Dope on Mars by Jack Sharkey takes readers on an intergalactic adventure filled with humor and unexpected twists. Set in a not-so-distant future, the story follows a group of hapless astronauts who embark on a mission to Mars, which quickly turns into a hilarious comedy of errors. Sharkey's writing style is witty and engaging, perfectly suited for the humorous tone of the book. The characters, although somewhat exaggerated, are well-developed and each brings their own unique quirks and personalities to the story. From the bumbling captain trying to maintain order to the resourceful engineer who always has a clever solution, the crew members create a dynamic and entertaining ensemble. What sets The Dope on Mars apart from other space-themed novels is its satirical take on bureaucracy and corporate greed. As the astronauts encounter one absurd obstacle after another, Sharkey cleverly uses these absurdities to critique society's obsession with profit and politics, adding depth and relevance to the story. The plot is fast-paced and packed with unexpected twists and turns. From mistaken identities to unconventional problem-solving methods, readers will find themselves constantly entertained and amused. Sharkey's talent for comedic timing shines through, ensuring that the comedic elements never feel forced or stale. While the book is undeniably humorous, it also manages to touch upon themes of friendship, determination, and the importance of teamwork. The camaraderie between the crew members and their unwavering perseverance in the face of countless setbacks sends a positive message that resonates long after the final page. One minor drawback of the book is that some readers may find the humor and over-the-top situations a little too far-fetched, potentially hindering a deeper connection with the characters and story. However, for those who enjoy light-hearted and zany space adventures, these elements add to the charm and overall entertainment value of the book. In conclusion, The Dope on Mars is a delightful and amusing read that will tickle the funny bone of any science fiction and comedy enthusiast. Jack Sharkey's clever writing and sharp wit combine to create a memorable interstellar journey, filled with laughter, satire, and heart. First Page: [Illustration] THE DOPE on Mars By JACK SHARKEY Somebody had to get the human angle on this trip ... but what was humane about sending me? Illustrated by WOOD My agent was the one who got me the job of going along to write up the first trip to Mars. He was always getting me things like that appearances on TV shows, or mentions in writers' magazines. If he didn't sell much of my stuff, at least he sold me . "It'll be the biggest break a writer ever got," he told me, two days before blastoff. "Oh, sure there'll be scientific reports on the trip, but the public doesn't want them; they want the human slant on things." "But, Louie," I said weakly, "I'll probably be locked up for the whole trip. If there are fights or accidents, they won't tell me about them." "Nonsense," said Louie, sipping carefully at a paper cup of scalding coffee. "It'll be just like the public going along vicariously. They'll identify with you." "But, Louie," I said, wiping the dampness from my palms on the knees of my trousers as I sat there, "how'll I go about it? A story? An article? A you are there type of report? What?" Louie shrugged. "So keep a diary. It'll be more intimate, like." "But what if nothing happens?" I insisted hopelessly... Continue reading book >>

The Dope on Mars By: Jack Sharkey (1931-)

The Dope on Mars by Jack Sharkey takes readers on an intergalactic adventure filled with humor and unexpected twists. Set in a not-so-distant future, the story follows a group of hapless astronauts who embark on a mission to Mars, which quickly turns into a hilarious comedy of errors.

Sharkey's writing style is witty and engaging, perfectly suited for the humorous tone of the book. The characters, although somewhat exaggerated, are well-developed and each brings their own unique quirks and personalities to the story. From the bumbling captain trying to maintain order to the resourceful engineer who always has a clever solution, the crew members create a dynamic and entertaining ensemble.

What sets The Dope on Mars apart from other space-themed novels is its satirical take on bureaucracy and corporate greed. As the astronauts encounter one absurd obstacle after another, Sharkey cleverly uses these absurdities to critique society's obsession with profit and politics, adding depth and relevance to the story.

The plot is fast-paced and packed with unexpected twists and turns. From mistaken identities to unconventional problem-solving methods, readers will find themselves constantly entertained and amused. Sharkey's talent for comedic timing shines through, ensuring that the comedic elements never feel forced or stale.

While the book is undeniably humorous, it also manages to touch upon themes of friendship, determination, and the importance of teamwork. The camaraderie between the crew members and their unwavering perseverance in the face of countless setbacks sends a positive message that resonates long after the final page.

One minor drawback of the book is that some readers may find the humor and over-the-top situations a little too far-fetched, potentially hindering a deeper connection with the characters and story. However, for those who enjoy light-hearted and zany space adventures, these elements add to the charm and overall entertainment value of the book.

In conclusion, The Dope on Mars is a delightful and amusing read that will tickle the funny bone of any science fiction and comedy enthusiast. Jack Sharkey's clever writing and sharp wit combine to create a memorable interstellar journey, filled with laughter, satire, and heart.

First Page:

[Illustration]

THE DOPE on Mars

By JACK SHARKEY

Somebody had to get the human angle on this trip ... but what was humane about sending me?

Illustrated by WOOD

My agent was the one who got me the job of going along to write up the first trip to Mars. He was always getting me things like that appearances on TV shows, or mentions in writers' magazines. If he didn't sell much of my stuff, at least he sold me .

"It'll be the biggest break a writer ever got," he told me, two days before blastoff. "Oh, sure there'll be scientific reports on the trip, but the public doesn't want them; they want the human slant on things."

"But, Louie," I said weakly, "I'll probably be locked up for the whole trip. If there are fights or accidents, they won't tell me about them."

"Nonsense," said Louie, sipping carefully at a paper cup of scalding coffee. "It'll be just like the public going along vicariously. They'll identify with you."

"But, Louie," I said, wiping the dampness from my palms on the knees of my trousers as I sat there, "how'll I go about it? A story? An article? A you are there type of report? What?"

Louie shrugged. "So keep a diary. It'll be more intimate, like."

"But what if nothing happens?" I insisted hopelessly... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
Science
Short stories

eBook links
Wikipedia – Jack Sharkey
Wikipedia – The Dope on Mars

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