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Cover of The first American King

The first American King

Written by George Gordon Hastings

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Science FictionUnited StatesSpeculative fiction

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About this book

"The First American King" by George Gordon Hastings is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a uniquely constructed setting, beginning at Dr. Belden's establishment, a sanatorium and physical culture resort in Long Island, where guests seek rejuvenation. The narrative centers around key characters such as Dr. Kearns, a prominent detective, and Professor Dean, who are both unsuspecting participants in a larger mystery that combines elements of science and fantastical speculation, hinting at themes of social change and the evolution of civilization. At the start of the tale, we are introduced to Dr. Belden's establishment, where guests are treated for their various ailments, and we meet Mr. Kearns and Professor Dean, who engage in discussions on social and scientific topics. Their curiosity leads them to the eccentric Dr. Jaquet, who promises to showcase his cave and the peculiar phenomena of suspended animation. However, the narrative soon surprises the characters—and the readers—when Kearns and Dean unexpectedly fall into a deep sleep that lasts decades, with them waking up in a vastly changed world governed by a king. This striking premise sets the stage for exploration of political, social, and technological transformations that emerge from their long slumber, promising an intriguing journey ahead.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The first American King, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • mysterious
  • speculative
  • thought-provoking

George Gordon Hastings's "The First American King" is an early 20th-century speculative novel that plunges two unsuspecting men, detective Dr. Kearns and Professor Dean, into a drastically altered future. Beginning at a Long Island sanatorium, their curiosity leads them to the eccentric Dr. Jaquet and his promise of suspended animation, which unexpectedly traps them in a decades-long slumber. Upon awakening, they discover America transformed into a monarchy governed by a king, a stark departure from their republican past. The narrative then explores the profound political, social, and technological changes of this new world, prompting a critical examination of societal evolution and the nature of power.

“"To sleep, perhaps to dream of a future we cannot fathom... but to wake to a world utterly remade, that is a dream no man can anticipate." (Illustrative, reflecting the core premise)”

Key themes

Social Change and Evolution of Civilization
This is the central theme, explored through the radical transformation of America from a republic to a monarchy over several decades. The novel questions the linearity of progress, suggesting that societal evolution can take unexpected and even seemingly regressive forms. It examines how fundamental structures of governance, values, and daily life can shift dramatically.
Political Systems and Governance
The novel directly confronts the nature of political power by presenting a stark contrast between the America of the early 20th century and a future governed by a king. It invites readers to consider the strengths and weaknesses of different governmental structures, the reasons for their rise and fall, and the impact of leadership on national identity and citizen's lives.
Scientific Speculation and Its Consequences
The entire premise hinges on Dr. Jaquet's eccentric scientific experiment in suspended animation. This theme explores the potential of scientific advancement, its ethical implications, and the unforeseen consequences of pushing the boundaries of what is known. It delves into human curiosity, the drive to control natural processes, and the unpredictable outcomes of such endeavors.

Worth discussing

How does the novel's premise of a republican America becoming a monarchy reflect early 20th-century anxieties or hopes about political systems?

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