The Non-Electronic Bug by E. Mittleman

"The Non-Electronic Bug" by E. Mittleman is a short story published in the early 1960s, showcasing a blend of science fiction and crime fiction. The narrative focuses on a clever card cheat who devises a scheme to gain an unfair advantage in gambling. It explores themes of deception, partnership, and the unexpected consequences of manipulating others, all wrapped in a plot filled with intrigue and tension. The protagonist, a self-proclaimed genius, uses a sophisticated radio system to communicate with his partner Henry during card games, allowing him to relay information about other players' hands. As the story unfolds, they bring in a young accomplice named Skippy, who has the ability to hear the thoughts of others, providing them with further insight. However, after an encounter with a rival who confronts Skippy, the boy's abilities become erratic, leading to unforeseen challenges that threaten their scheme. The narrative culminates in a reflection on the nature of their con, the risks of their criminal endeavors, and the unpredictability of relying on others. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Download for free

For your e-reader or reading app — Kindle, Kobo, Apple Books, Calibre etc.

Other formats & older devices

About this eBook

Author Mittleman, E.
Illustrator Morrow, Gray, 1934-2001
Title The Non-Electronic Bug
Series Title Produced from Worlds of If Science Fiction, July 1960
Credits Produced by Greg Weeks, Mary Meehan and the Online
Distributed Proofreading Team at www.pgdp.net
Reading Level Reading ease score: 93.8 (5th grade). Very easy to read.
Language English
LoC Class PS: Language and Literatures: American and Canadian literature
Subject Science fiction
Subject Short stories
Subject Telepathy -- Fiction
Subject Gambling -- Fiction
Subject Psychic ability -- Fiction
Subject Cardsharping -- Fiction
Category Text
eBook-No. 60897
Release Date
Last Update Oct 17, 2024
Copyright Public domain in the USA.
Downloads 242 downloads in the last 30 days.

Project Gutenberg eBooks are always free!