Doorstep by Keith Laumer (1973)
The novel explores the concept of a doorway between parallel universes, where individuals can travel to alternate realities. The protagonist discovers this doorway and begins to explore its possibilities, encountering various versions of himself and others in different worlds. As he navigates these alternate realities, he uncovers a complex web of events that threaten the stability of his own universe.
By Keith Laumer · First published 1973 · Genre: Science Fiction, Military Fiction, Thriller · 2,520 words
First lines
The general was bucking for his other star -- and this miserable contraption bucked right back!
Steadying his elbow on the kitchen table serving as desk, Brigadier General Straut leveled his binoculars and stared out through the second-floor window of the farmhouse at the bulky object lying canted at the edge of the wood lot. He watched the figures moving over and around the gray mass, then flipped the lever on the field telephone at his elbow.
What this Textopian page supports
Doorstep is listed on Textopian as a short story by Keith Laumer, dated 1973 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Keith Laumer
- Date: 1973 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Military Fiction, Thriller, Adventure, Drama
- Length: 2,520 words
- Structure: 1 section, 90 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Doorstep by Keith Laumer
- 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 Doorstep?
- How does this short story by Keith Laumer fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- End As A Hero by Keith Laumer
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- Spatial Delivery by Randall Garrett
- Mightiest Qorn by Keith Laumer
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Genres
- Science Fiction — The plot revolves around an extraterrestrial object and its implications, typical of the science fiction genre.
- Military Fiction — The story features military personnel, strategies, and the dynamics of command in a crisis situation.
- Thriller — The tension and urgency surrounding the unknown threat create a suspenseful atmosphere.
- Adventure — The narrative includes elements of exploration and confrontation with an alien entity.
Tags
Science Fiction · Space Opera · Humor · Satire · Alien Invasion · Military Science Fiction · Action Adventure · Speculative Fiction · Alternate History · Time Travel · Parody · Social Commentary