Planet of the Damned
What is Planet of the Damned about?
Planet of the Damned (1962) is Harry Harrison’s science fiction adventure about Brion Brandd, a winner of a planetary athletic competition who is recruited to prevent the destruction of the planet Dis. The inhabitants of Dis have threatened to launch a nuclear attack on a neighboring world, and Brion must discover why an entire planet has become irrationally aggressive before time runs out. The novel combines fast-paced action with an ecological mystery, as Brion uncovers the biological cause of the Disians’ violent behavior. It was nominated for the Hugo Award.
Main themes in Planet of the Damned
Science fiction adventure
Science fiction adventure emerges as a defining element in Planet of the Damned, shaping character development.
Ecological mystery
Ecological mystery emerges as a defining element in Planet of the Damned, shaping character development.
Alien biology
The theme of alien biology weaves through Planet of the Damned, adding depth to its narrative.
Nuclear threat
Nuclear threat emerges as a defining element in Planet of the Damned, shaping character development.
Why Planet of the Damned is still relevant today
Planet of the Damned is an engaging science fiction adventure that combines action with ecological themes. Its exploration of biological influences on behavior was ahead of its time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Planet of the Damned about?
An athlete is recruited to prevent a planet from launching a nuclear attack, and must discover the biological cause of an entire population’s violent behavior.
Is it part of a series?
It has a sequel, Planet of No Return, but reads well as a standalone novel.
Is it a quick read?
Yes, it is a fast-paced, compact science fiction adventure.
Can I read it free?
Yes, the complete novel is available free on TextStack.