Holes, Incorporated

"Holes, Incorporated" by L. Major Reynolds is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story explores the implications of an invented machine capable of making holes leading into the fourth dimension, which has unexpected consequences for the construction industry. The book combines elements of humor and science fiction while addressing themes of innovation, exploitation, and the moral dilemmas faced by inventors. The narrative follows two inventors, Ted Baker and Bill Stephens, who develop a device that creates holes in solid objects by accessing the fourth dimension. When they attempt to sell their invention to a construction executive, H. Joshua Blair, they are met with skepticism and ultimately betrayal as Blair claims their invention for himself. As the story unfolds, a construction project utilizing their invention leads to disastrous results, culminating in the collapse of the building. In the end, Ted and Bill realize that despite the setbacks, they are better off without the risky business entanglement, deciding to refocus their efforts on another project. The novel cleverly satirizes corporate greed and the challenges faced by small inventors in a competitive world.