Bleekman's Planet by Randall Garrett

Name: Bleekman's Planet
Author: Randall Garrett

Mac Thornwald, a retired Interstellar Policeman, arrives on Bleekman's Planet seeking a peaceful life after a decade of service. However, his hopes are quickly dashed when he is confronted by corrupt customs inspectors who confiscate his belongings and imprison him without cause. Thornwald learns from his cellmate, Miller, that the planet is under the tyrannical control of Governor Lloyd Henderson, who monopolizes the lucrative thylomine drug trade derived from the local narkos tree. Determined to escape and reclaim his prosthetic arm, which is crucial for his survival, Thornwald devises a plan. He feigns a medical emergency to lure a guard into his cell, allowing him to escape. Injured but resolute, he makes his way to the Governor's Mansion, where he believes his trunk—and his arm—are being held. Using stealth and cunning, Thornwald infiltrates the mansion, taking out guards and gathering information. He confronts Henderson, who is dismissive and believes Thornwald is a spy. After enduring a brutal interrogation, Thornwald cleverly manipulates the situation by claiming his transmitter is hidden in his prosthetic arm. When Henderson's guards retrieve the arm, Thornwald activates it telepathically, using it to seize Henderson and threaten him. With the Governor at his mercy, Thornwald demands access to an ultrawave radio to call for help. He successfully contacts the Interstellar Police, informing them of the corruption and chaos on Bleekman's Planet. As he awaits their arrival, he prepares to ensure that Henderson and his thugs face justice, transforming the once oppressive world into a place where he can finally find the peace he sought.

By Randall Garrett · First published 1970 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Mystery · 4,521 words

First lines

Thornwald had done his tour of duty for the Solar Service; now it was time for him to retire But a life of relaxation would not be simple on --

Looking around cautiously, Mac Thornwald eased himself down from the window ledge where he had been crouching. It was less than a ten-foot drop, but because of the pain in his left ankle he didn't dare to drop too heavily. His right leg would have to take the brunt of the shock.

What this Textopian page supports

Bleekman's Planet is listed on Textopian as a novel by Randall Garrett, dated 1970 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Randall Garrett
Date: 1970 CE
Language: English
Genres: Science Fiction, Adventure, Mystery, Thriller, Dystopian
Length: 4,521 words
Structure: 1 section, 169 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Science Fiction — The story is set in a futuristic, interstellar context with advanced technology and space travel, typical of the science fiction genre.
Adventure — The protagonist, Mac Thornwald, embarks on a perilous journey filled with action, conflict, and survival against oppressive forces.
Mystery — The plot involves uncovering the corrupt governance of Bleekman's Planet and the protagonist's quest to understand the situation he finds himself in.
Thriller — The narrative includes elements of suspense and danger, particularly as Thornwald navigates threats from the Governor and his enforcers.