A Matter of Protocol: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
A Matter of Protocol: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

A Matter of Protocol is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Sharkey, Jack (1931–1992).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"A Matter of Protocol" by Jack Sharkey is a science fiction novella published in the early 1960s. Set on the lush, alien planet of Viridian, the story explores the complexities of life forms on this newly encountered celestial body. The narrative centers around the theme of first contact with extraterrestrial species and examines how interdependent life forms interact in their ecosystems. The plot follows Space Zoologist Lieutenant Jerry Norcriss, who embarks on a mission to study the alien life on Viridian. During his exploration, Jerry experiences a remarkable Connection with different species, uncovering a complex symbiotic relationship between the planet's insects, bear-like mammals, and native plants. The creatures rely on each other for reproduction and survival, establishing a unique ecological protocol. However, as his research reveals the delicate balance of life, a disaster occurs due to the destruction caused by Jerry's team during their landing. This ecological disruption leads to the eventual demise of the planet's vibrant ecosystem, leaving Jerry to grapple with the unintended consequences of their actions. Through this story, Sharkey conveys themes of interconnectedness, the fragility of ecosystems, and the potential ramifications of human interference in alien environments.
Book and edition facts
- Title: A Matter of Protocol
- Author credits: Sharkey, Jack (1931–1992)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Human-alien encounters -- Fiction
- Life on other planets -- Fiction
- Norcriss, Jerry (Fictitious character) -- Fiction
- Science fiction
- Short stories
Gutenberg collections
- Category: Science-Fiction & Fantasy
- Science Fiction
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View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.


