Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

The Junkmakers   By:

Book cover

In "The Junkmakers" by Albert Teichner, readers are transported to a dystopian future where mankind's obsession with technology has reached terrifying heights. Set in a world plagued by environmental degradation and an overwhelming reliance on machines, Teichner crafts a thought-provoking and unsettling narrative that explores the consequences of unchecked technological progress.

The novel follows the story of protagonist John Cray as he navigates a society consumed by the allure of artificial creations. As a junkmaker, Cray's job is to resurrect discarded technology, breathing new life into these discarded machines. However, as he delves deeper into this world, Cray becomes increasingly aware of the dangerous implications of his profession and the destructive path humanity is treading.

Teichner's writing is evocative and vivid, painting a bleak picture of a world overrun by the remnants of consumerism and its detrimental effects. Through crisp prose and immersive descriptions, the author skillfully captures the desolate landscapes and decaying cities, while also highlighting the stark contrast between the bustling metropolis and the worn-out individuals who inhabit it.

One of the book's strengths lies in its exploration of the human psyche and the impact of technology on our perception of reality. Teichner delves into philosophical questions surrounding identity and authenticity, lacing his narrative with existential undertones. As Cray grapples with his own sense of purpose and the moral implications of his junkmaking, readers are compelled to consider the ramifications of our ever-increasing dependence on technology.

Moreover, the author provides nuanced character development throughout the novel. John Cray is a flawed yet relatable protagonist, constantly questioning his place in a world that values artificiality over authenticity. The supporting cast is equally well-drawn, each playing a significant role in Cray's journey of self-discovery.

However, while "The Junkmakers" offers a captivating premise and raises important thematic questions, the pacing of the story can occasionally be uneven. Moments of intense action and suspense are interspersed with slower, introspective chapters, which may disengage some readers seeking a consistently fast-paced narrative.

Nevertheless, "The Junkmakers" remains an important addition to the dystopian genre. Teichner's ability to craft a hauntingly detailed world and his exploration of the impact of technology on humanity's moral fabric offer readers a captivating and sobering experience. With its thought-provoking themes and compelling characters, this novel serves as a cautionary tale that prompts us to reflect on the direction of our own technological society.

First Page:

Transcriber's Note:

This etext was produced from If: Worlds of Science Fiction July 1961. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.

THE JUNKMAKERS

BY ALBERT TEICHNER

ERIC WAS THE BEST ROBOT THEY'D EVER HAD PERFECTLY TRAINED, EVER THOUGHTFUL, A JOY TO OWN. NATURALLY THEY HAD TO DESTROY HIM!

I

Wendell Hart had drifted, rather than plunged, into the underground movement. Later, discussing it with other members of the Savers' Conspiracy, he found they had experienced the same slow, almost casual awakening. His own, though, had come at a more appropriate time, just a few weeks before the Great Ritual Sacrifice.

The Sacrifice took place only once a decade, on High Holy Day at dawn of the spring equinox. For days prior to it joyous throngs of workers helped assemble old vehicles, machine tools and computers in the public squares, crowning each pile with used, disconnected robots. In the evening of the Day they proudly made their private heaps on the neat green lawns of their homes. These traditionally consisted of household utensils, electric heaters, air conditioners and the family servant... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books