At a glance
The article, titled “Philip Wylie's Superspy,” discusses a spy novel written by noted writer Philip Wylie (1902-1971).
Dr. Richard Kellogg, professor emeritus of psychology at Alfred State College, is the author of an article appearing in the most recent issue of Paperback Parade, a quarterly journal for readers and book collectors. The article, titled “Philip Wylie's Superspy,” discusses a spy novel written by noted writer Philip Wylie (1902-1971).
Wylie's book, “The Spy Who Spoke Porpoise” (1968), captures the fears and anxieties associated with an era termed the “Cold War.” The plot involves a Russian scheme to conceal nuclear submarines in underground caves off the shores of Hawaii.
When a signal is given, the subs will tow massive bombs to the West Coast of the United States. After being detonated, the radioactive cloud from the bombs will kill most of the population. Russia will then dominate the world.
The hero of the adventure is a retired millionaire named Ring Grove. The genial retiree from New York, who served with the OSS in World War II, is actually working underground in Hawaii for the president. His mission is to detect and foil a diabolical plan to attack and destroy the United States.
The author points out that Ring Grove is one of the most remarkable characters in espionage fiction. He symbolizes the brave individual fighting against the forces of evil. Grove's exploits provide the contemporary reader with a fresh perspective on the crucial role that intelligence agencies played in protecting the nation during the Atomic Age.
Kellogg writes frequently about the genres of mystery and science fiction. He is the creator of a series of mysteries for children that feature boy detective Barry Baskerville. His most recent book, titled, “Barry Baskerville's Marvelous Memory” (2017), is available at the Amazon website.