Survival

"Survival" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book explores themes of identity, adaptation, and survival in an alien environment as humans find themselves marooned on Venus after a scientific experiment goes awry. The intriguing premise revolves around the transfer of human consciousness into alien bodies, forcing the characters to navigate the challenges of their new existence. In "Survival," Glade Masson, a meek history professor, along with a group of fellow Earthlings, undergoes an unexpected transformation when their minds are swapped with the native froglike beings of Venus following a failed scientific experiment. As they adapt to their bizarre surroundings and physical changes, they must contend with hostile natives and the harsh ecosystem of Venus. Throughout the story, Masson and his companions embark on a quest to survive, struggling to build a new civilization while grappling with the implications of their new bodies and the ethics of their actions. As the narrative unfolds, they face intense conflicts, not only from the natives they seek to understand but also about their own humanity in the face of monstrous challenges.