Meeting of the Board By: Alan Edward Nourse (1928-1992)
Meeting of the Board by Alan Edward Nourse is an intense and thought-provoking novel set in a near-future dystopian world. The author skillfully combines elements of science fiction and political thriller, creating a gripping narrative that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. The story revolves around a young physician named Dr. John Macdonald who is summoned to a secret meeting of an enigmatic organization called the Board. This powerful group controls all aspects of society, manipulating the economy, politics, and even healthcare. As Dr. Macdonald delves deeper into the Board's operations, he discovers their sinister agenda and the extent of their control over people's lives. Nourse's writing style is tight and eloquent, with well-developed characters that feel realistic and relatable. Dr. Macdonald's journey from an oblivious doctor to a disillusioned rebel is depicted with great depth and complexity. The author effectively portrays the internal struggle faced by the protagonist as he grapples with ethical dilemmas and questions the moral implications of the Board's actions. Moreover, Nourse's world-building is exceptional, presenting a detailed and bleak vision of a future dominated by corporate power. The depiction of a society where individuals are mere pawns, manipulated for the benefit of a few is chillingly plausible. The author raises pertinent questions about the balance between progress and the well-being of humanity, sparking reflection in the reader's mind. The plot moves at a brisk pace, filled with twists and turns that keep the reader enthralled. The tension steadily escalates, culminating in a thrilling climax that wraps up the narrative neatly. The suspense and mystery surrounding the Board's ultimate motives are skillfully maintained throughout the story, ensuring that the reader remains engrossed until the last page. If there is one minor flaw in the book, it is the relatively sparse character development of secondary figures. While Dr. Macdonald is a well-rounded protagonist with a satisfying arc, some of the supporting characters could have been further explored to add texture to the story. Overall, Meeting of the Board is an exceptional work of dystopian fiction that raises important social and moral questions. Alan Edward Nourse's meticulous prose, coupled with a gripping narrative, makes for a compelling reading experience. This thought-provoking novel is a must-read for fans of the genre, and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story with a strong social commentary. First Page: Transcriber's Note: This etext was produced from The Counterfeit Man More Science Fiction Stories by Alan E. Nourse published in 1963. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed. Minor spelling and typographical errors have been corrected without note. Meeting of the Board It was going to be a bad day. As he pushed his way nervously through the crowds toward the Exit Strip, Walter Towne turned the dismal prospect over and over in his mind. The potential gloominess of this particular day had descended upon him the instant the morning buzzer had gone off, making it even more tempting than usual just to roll over and forget about it all. Twenty minutes later, the water douse came to drag him, drenched and gurgling, back to the cruel cold world. He had wolfed down his morning Koffee Kup with one eye on the clock and one eye on his growing sense of impending crisis. And now, to make things just a trifle worse, he was going to be late again. He struggled doggedly across the rumbling Exit strip toward the plant entrance. After all, he told himself, why should he be so upset? He was Vice President in Charge of Production of the Robling Titanium Corporation. What could they do to him, really? He had rehearsed his part many times, squaring his thin shoulders, looking the union boss straight in the eye and saying, "Now, see here, Torkleson " But he knew, when the showdown came, that he wouldn't say any such thing... Continue reading book >>

Meeting of the Board By: Alan Edward Nourse (1928-1992)

Meeting of the Board by Alan Edward Nourse is an intense and thought-provoking novel set in a near-future dystopian world. The author skillfully combines elements of science fiction and political thriller, creating a gripping narrative that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.

The story revolves around a young physician named Dr. John Macdonald who is summoned to a secret meeting of an enigmatic organization called the Board. This powerful group controls all aspects of society, manipulating the economy, politics, and even healthcare. As Dr. Macdonald delves deeper into the Board's operations, he discovers their sinister agenda and the extent of their control over people's lives.

Nourse's writing style is tight and eloquent, with well-developed characters that feel realistic and relatable. Dr. Macdonald's journey from an oblivious doctor to a disillusioned rebel is depicted with great depth and complexity. The author effectively portrays the internal struggle faced by the protagonist as he grapples with ethical dilemmas and questions the moral implications of the Board's actions.

Moreover, Nourse's world-building is exceptional, presenting a detailed and bleak vision of a future dominated by corporate power. The depiction of a society where individuals are mere pawns, manipulated for the benefit of a few is chillingly plausible. The author raises pertinent questions about the balance between progress and the well-being of humanity, sparking reflection in the reader's mind.

The plot moves at a brisk pace, filled with twists and turns that keep the reader enthralled. The tension steadily escalates, culminating in a thrilling climax that wraps up the narrative neatly. The suspense and mystery surrounding the Board's ultimate motives are skillfully maintained throughout the story, ensuring that the reader remains engrossed until the last page.

If there is one minor flaw in the book, it is the relatively sparse character development of secondary figures. While Dr. Macdonald is a well-rounded protagonist with a satisfying arc, some of the supporting characters could have been further explored to add texture to the story.

Overall, Meeting of the Board is an exceptional work of dystopian fiction that raises important social and moral questions. Alan Edward Nourse's meticulous prose, coupled with a gripping narrative, makes for a compelling reading experience. This thought-provoking novel is a must-read for fans of the genre, and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story with a strong social commentary.

First Page:

Transcriber's Note:

This etext was produced from The Counterfeit Man More Science Fiction Stories by Alan E. Nourse published in 1963. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed. Minor spelling and typographical errors have been corrected without note.

Meeting of the Board

It was going to be a bad day. As he pushed his way nervously through the crowds toward the Exit Strip, Walter Towne turned the dismal prospect over and over in his mind. The potential gloominess of this particular day had descended upon him the instant the morning buzzer had gone off, making it even more tempting than usual just to roll over and forget about it all. Twenty minutes later, the water douse came to drag him, drenched and gurgling, back to the cruel cold world. He had wolfed down his morning Koffee Kup with one eye on the clock and one eye on his growing sense of impending crisis. And now, to make things just a trifle worse, he was going to be late again.

He struggled doggedly across the rumbling Exit strip toward the plant entrance. After all, he told himself, why should he be so upset? He was Vice President in Charge of Production of the Robling Titanium Corporation. What could they do to him, really? He had rehearsed his part many times, squaring his thin shoulders, looking the union boss straight in the eye and saying, "Now, see here, Torkleson " But he knew, when the showdown came, that he wouldn't say any such thing... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
Satire
Science
Short stories

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Wikipedia – Alan Edward Nourse
Wikipedia – Meeting of the Board

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