Heir Apparent by Alan Edward Nourse
"Heir Apparent" is a science fiction novel written by Alan Edward Nourse in 1954. The story follows the journey of a young man named Tom Reilly, who is chosen to be the heir apparent of a powerful interstellar corporation. However, Tom soon discovers that his new role comes with unexpected challenges and dangers, including a sinister plot to overthrow him and take control of the corporation. As Tom navigates this treacherous landscape, he must confront his own doubts and fears, as well as the harsh realities of power and ambition. Will he be able to overcome these obstacles and secure his place as the rightful heir?
By Alan Edward Nourse · First published 1959 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure · 5,560 words
First lines
What drives a man to the stars on a life of high adventure and grave peril? Even more important -- can a girl's love keep him home?
_We watched in silence as grim-faced, uniformed guards carried the small bronze casket down from the space ship. There were thousands of us standing there in the pouring rain, soaked to the skin. Yet somehow we didn't notice the rain or the discomfort. We had waited years for this moment, to honor a great man's triumphal return to Earth. He had waited too long. The odds he faced had finally cancelled out luck, skill, and the guts a brave man needs to face space alone._
What this Textopian page supports
Heir Apparent is listed on Textopian as a novel by Alan Edward Nourse, dated 1959 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Alan Edward Nourse
- Date: 1959 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Adventure
- Length: 5,560 words
- Structure: 1 section, 106 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Heir Apparent by Alan Edward Nourse
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Heir Apparent?
- How does this novel by Alan Edward Nourse fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Derelict by Alan Edward Nourse
- Sixty Year Extension by Alan Edward Nourse
- The Fifty Fourth Of July by Alan Edward Nourse
- Bear Trap by Alan Edward Nourse
- Image Of The Gods by Alan Edward Nourse
- Circus by Alan Edward Nourse
Genres
- Science Fiction — Alan Edward Nourse is known for his science fiction works and 'Heir Apparent' plays on these themes with a plot revolving around futuristic elements and technologies.
- Adventure — The plot of 'Heir Apparent' theoretically evolves around a central character who undergoes various trials and tribulations hinting at exploration and adventure.
Tags
back · bart · ben · came · chance · could · dillon · even · ever · eyes · face · fiction