The Black Alarm by George O. Smith
The Black Alarm is a science fiction novel written by George O. Smith and published in 1954. The story follows the adventures of Dr. John Gordon, an atomic physicist who discovers a way to create a powerful weapon that can destroy entire cities with just one blast. As he tries to keep his discovery secret from the world's governments, he becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of espionage and intrigue. The novel explores themes of power, responsibility, and the dangers of unchecked scientific progress.
By George O. Smith · First published 1943 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Thriller · 6 chapters · 18,909 words
First lines
Steve Hagen was determined to live his own life, and he chose the dangerous career of the Guardians. But was he as free as he imagined himself to be? There's a subtle difference between rational and irrational hatred. The latter leads directly to fanaticism -- and one definition of a fanatic is "a person who redoubles his efforts after having forgotten his aim".
Twenty years as private secretary to William Wrightwood had prepared Miss Peters to meet any contretemps except the angry, purposeful arrival of Steve Hagen, who strode through her outer office with no more than a nod at her, and opened the door to Wrightwood's private office.
What this Textopian page supports
The Black Alarm is listed on Textopian as a novel by George O. Smith, dated 1943 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: George O. Smith
- Date: 1943 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Adventure, Thriller, Mystery
- Length: 18,909 words
- Structure: 6 chapters, 589 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Black Alarm by George O. Smith
- 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 The Black Alarm?
- How does this novel by George O. Smith fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Science Fiction — The book primarily explores futuristic technology and space travel, which are central to the plot and themes.
- Adventure — The narrative involves a journey and exploration, with characters facing various challenges and dangers.
- Thriller — The story includes suspenseful and tense situations that keep the reader engaged.
- Mystery — There are elements of intrigue and problem-solving as characters uncover hidden truths.
Tags
science fiction · mystery · suspense · technology · space exploration · detective · adventure · futuristic · aliens · intrigue · action · thriller
Contents
- CHAPTER 1
- CHAPTER 2
- CHAPTER 3
- CHAPTER 4
- CHAPTER 5
- CHAPTER 6