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The Unnecessary Man   By: (1927-1987)

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In Randall Garrett's intriguing novel, The Unnecessary Man, readers are taken on a thrilling journey through a world filled with political intrigue, high-stakes power struggles, and a protagonist who defies expectations at every turn.

Set in a not-so-distant future, the story revolves around our central character, a man named Sam Cavanaugh, who finds himself caught up in a complex web of conspiracy and manipulation. Sam is an "unnecessary" man, seemingly devoid of any useful skills or value in this futuristic society. However, as the narrative unfolds, we quickly discover that appearances can be deceiving.

What sets The Unnecessary Man apart is its masterful storytelling and compelling character development. Garrett's writing style is engaging, effortlessly drawing readers into this dystopian world. The novel tackles themes of identity, redemption, and the power of individual agency amidst societal structures that seek to strip away a person's worth.

Sam Cavanaugh is a remarkably well-crafted character, challenging the notion that one's worth is solely measured by tangible skills or societal expectations. As he grapples with his own identity and the relentless pursuit of those who view him as dispensable, Sam's journey becomes a metaphor for the struggle against the dehumanizing effects of a society driven by efficiency and productivity.

Moreover, Garrett's vivid descriptions transport readers to a world where corruption and politics reign supreme. The author cleverly explores the darker sides of power, exposing the hypocrisy and manipulation that often underpin systems of governance. By delving into the intricacies of political maneuvering, The Unnecessary Man prompts readers to question the ethics of those who hold authority and control over others.

While the novel excels in its storytelling and rich character development, there are moments where the pacing feels slightly uneven. Certain sections delve into extensive detail, sometimes at the expense of the overall momentum. However, this is easily outweighed by the compelling narrative and thought-provoking themes that resonate long after the final chapter.

In conclusion, Randall Garrett's The Unnecessary Man is a captivating dystopian novel that skillfully explores the relationship between individual identity and societal expectations. Through a well-crafted plot and vivid characters, it invites readers to reflect on the nature of power, the true measure of a person's value in society, and the potential for redemption in the face of adversity. It is a thought-provoking and enthralling read for fans of the genre and an impressive contribution to the realms of speculative fiction.

First Page:

THE UNNECESSARY MAN

BY RANDALL GARRETT

Sometimes an organizational setup grows, sets its ways, and becomes so traditional that once necessary jobs become unnecessary. But it is sometimes quite hard to spot just which man is the unnecessary one. In this case ... not the one you think!

Illustrated by Martinez

"I recall," said the Businessman, "that William Wrigley, Junior, once said: 'When two men in a business always agree, one of them is unnecessary.' How true that is."

The Philosopher cast his eyes toward Heaven. "O God! The Mercantile Mind!" He looked back at the Businessman. "When two men in a business always agree, one of them will come in handy as a scapegoat."

THE IDLE WORSHIPERS by R. Phillip Dachboden

[Illustration]

Lord Barrick Sorban, Colonel, H.I.M.O.G., Ret., sipped gently at his drink and looked mildly at the sheaf of newsfacsimile that he'd just bought fresh from the reproducer in the lobby of the Royal Hotel. Sorban did not look like a man of action; he certainly did not look like a retired colonel of His Imperial Majesty's Own Guard. The most likely reason for this was that he was neither.

Not that he was incapable of action on a physical level if it became necessary; he was past forty, but his tough, hard body was in as fine a shape as it had been fifteen years before, and his reflexes had slowed only slightly... Continue reading book >>




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