Syndrome Johnny by Charles Dye
A catastrophic plague, originating from a single blood donor, devastates humanity, leading to widespread death and societal upheaval. The initial outbreak results in a syndrome that alters the endocrine system and emotional stability of survivors. Years later, a second wave of the plague emerges, with a man named Johnny at its center, rumored to be the mythical "Syndrome Johnny," a figure of mass hysteria linked to the disease. As the narrative unfolds, a police psychologist investigates the resurgence of this myth, uncovering connections to a long-lived man named John Delgados, who has evaded detection for over a century. Delgados, a biochemist, is revealed to have undergone significant chemical alterations to survive and propagate the plague's effects, which he views as an evolutionary advancement for humanity. The protagonist, Ricardo Alcala, grapples with the implications of Delgados' actions and the potential for another plague, which could lead to further societal transformation. As tensions rise, Alcala confronts the moral dilemmas surrounding the pursuit of progress at the cost of individual lives, ultimately leading to a climactic decision that could alter the course of human evolution. The work explores themes of sacrifice, the nature of progress, and the ethical boundaries of scientific experimentation.
By Charles Dye · First published 1987 · Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller, Drama