The Sky Trap By: Frank Belknap Long (1903-1994)
The Sky Trap by Frank Belknap Long is a captivating science fiction novel that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through an unimaginable future. Set in a dystopian society, the author presents a bleak yet thought-provoking vision of the world. Long's writing style is both vivid and immersive, allowing readers to easily visualize the desolate landscapes and crumbling cities that dominate this apocalyptic world. The detailed descriptions create a sense of foreboding, drawing readers deeper into the narrative and keeping them engaged until the very last page. One of the most remarkable aspects of The Sky Trap is the author's ability to create complex and believable characters. The protagonist, John Arnold, is a flawed and relatable hero, making his journey all the more compelling. Long does a commendable job of delving into Arnold's inner thoughts and struggles, bringing depth to his character and heightening the emotional impact of his experiences. The plot of the novel is fast-paced and filled with thrilling twists and turns. The concept of a sky trap, a deadly technological device, adds an intriguing element of danger, constantly keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Long's ability to maintain suspense throughout the entire story is commendable, as readers will find it difficult to put the book down. Furthermore, The Sky Trap delves into significant moral and ethical dilemmas that are highly relevant to our own society. Long examines the consequences of overreliance on technology and the potential perils of unchecked scientific advancements. This serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to reflect on the potential implications of our actions and the responsibility we have towards the world we inhabit. Despite its numerous strengths, The Sky Trap does have a few minor flaws. At times, the pacing feels rushed, with some events happening too quickly to fully absorb their significance. Additionally, certain plot twists may feel predictable to avid science fiction readers. However, these minor flaws do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book. In conclusion, The Sky Trap is a captivating science fiction novel that successfully transports readers to a dystopian future. Long's vivid descriptions, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes make this a must-read for any fan of the genre. With its fast-paced plot and moral undertones, this book is sure to keep readers hooked until the very end. First Page: [Illustration: Nothing affected it. ] The SKY TRAP by FRANK BELKNAP LONG Lawton enjoyed a good fight. He stood happily trading blows with Slashaway Tommy, his lean fleshed torso gleaming with sweat. He preferred to work the pugnacity out of himself slowly, to savor it as it ebbed. "Better luck next time, Slashaway," he said, and unlimbered a left hook that thudded against his opponent's jaw with such violence that the big, hairy ape crumpled to the resin and rolled over on his back. Lawton brushed a lock of rust colored hair back from his brow and stared down at the limp figure lying on the descending stratoship's slightly tilted athletic deck. "Good work, Slashaway," he said. "You're primitive and beetle browed, but you've got what it takes." Lawton flattered himself that he was the opposite of primitive. High in the sky he had predicted the weather for eight days running, with far more accuracy than he could have put into a punch. They'd flash his report all over Earth in a couple of minutes now. From New York to London to Singapore and back. In half an hour he'd be donning street clothes and stepping out feeling darned good. He had fulfilled his weekly obligation to society by manipulating meteorological instruments for forty five minutes, high in the warm, upper stratosphere and worked off his pugnacity by knocking down a professional gym slugger... Continue reading book >>

The Sky Trap By: Frank Belknap Long (1903-1994)

The Sky Trap by Frank Belknap Long is a captivating science fiction novel that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through an unimaginable future. Set in a dystopian society, the author presents a bleak yet thought-provoking vision of the world.

Long's writing style is both vivid and immersive, allowing readers to easily visualize the desolate landscapes and crumbling cities that dominate this apocalyptic world. The detailed descriptions create a sense of foreboding, drawing readers deeper into the narrative and keeping them engaged until the very last page.

One of the most remarkable aspects of The Sky Trap is the author's ability to create complex and believable characters. The protagonist, John Arnold, is a flawed and relatable hero, making his journey all the more compelling. Long does a commendable job of delving into Arnold's inner thoughts and struggles, bringing depth to his character and heightening the emotional impact of his experiences.

The plot of the novel is fast-paced and filled with thrilling twists and turns. The concept of a sky trap, a deadly technological device, adds an intriguing element of danger, constantly keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Long's ability to maintain suspense throughout the entire story is commendable, as readers will find it difficult to put the book down.

Furthermore, The Sky Trap delves into significant moral and ethical dilemmas that are highly relevant to our own society. Long examines the consequences of overreliance on technology and the potential perils of unchecked scientific advancements. This serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to reflect on the potential implications of our actions and the responsibility we have towards the world we inhabit.

Despite its numerous strengths, The Sky Trap does have a few minor flaws. At times, the pacing feels rushed, with some events happening too quickly to fully absorb their significance. Additionally, certain plot twists may feel predictable to avid science fiction readers. However, these minor flaws do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book.

In conclusion, The Sky Trap is a captivating science fiction novel that successfully transports readers to a dystopian future. Long's vivid descriptions, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes make this a must-read for any fan of the genre. With its fast-paced plot and moral undertones, this book is sure to keep readers hooked until the very end.

First Page:

[Illustration: Nothing affected it. ]

The SKY TRAP

by FRANK BELKNAP LONG

Lawton enjoyed a good fight. He stood happily trading blows with Slashaway Tommy, his lean fleshed torso gleaming with sweat. He preferred to work the pugnacity out of himself slowly, to savor it as it ebbed.

"Better luck next time, Slashaway," he said, and unlimbered a left hook that thudded against his opponent's jaw with such violence that the big, hairy ape crumpled to the resin and rolled over on his back.

Lawton brushed a lock of rust colored hair back from his brow and stared down at the limp figure lying on the descending stratoship's slightly tilted athletic deck.

"Good work, Slashaway," he said. "You're primitive and beetle browed, but you've got what it takes."

Lawton flattered himself that he was the opposite of primitive. High in the sky he had predicted the weather for eight days running, with far more accuracy than he could have put into a punch.

They'd flash his report all over Earth in a couple of minutes now. From New York to London to Singapore and back. In half an hour he'd be donning street clothes and stepping out feeling darned good.

He had fulfilled his weekly obligation to society by manipulating meteorological instruments for forty five minutes, high in the warm, upper stratosphere and worked off his pugnacity by knocking down a professional gym slugger... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Science
Short stories

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Wikipedia – Frank Belknap Long
Wikipedia – The Sky Trap

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