Master of the Moondog

"Master of the Moondog" by Stanley Mullen is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The narrative centers around Tod Denver, a prospector on the Moon, and his peculiar pet, Charley, a moondog. The story unfolds as they become embroiled in a quest involving a hidden Martian mine, corporate scheming, and the dangers of a lawless lunar boomtown known as Crystal City. Through their misadventures, themes of companionship, greed, and survival are explored against the backdrop of a harsh and unforgiving lunar landscape. The plot begins with Tod Denver navigating the dangerous lunar terrain with Charley, who is both an annoying and endearing companion. After discovering a dead miner, Laird Martin, who left behind clues about a hidden fortune, Denver's life takes a tumultuous turn as he encounters various antagonists, notably the gangster Big Ed Caltis. As Denver seeks to protect Charley and unravel the mystery surrounding the Martian workings, he also crosses paths with Soleil, Martin's daughter, which complicates his intentions and emotions. As the story culminates in a confrontation with Caltis and his crew, Denver displays grit and resourcefulness as he fights for his life and a future with Soleil. Their journey leads them to unexpected alliances and the prospect of new beginnings as they share dreams of adventure and love amidst the chaos. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Stanley Mullen was an American artist, short story writer, novelist and publisher. He studied writing at the University of Colorado at Boulder and drawing, painting and lithography at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center where he was accepted as a professional member in 1937. A series of his paintings of Indian ceremonial dances is part of the permanent collection of the Denver Art Museum. Mullen worked as assistant curator of the Colorado State Historical Museum during the 1940s.