You Too Can Be A Millionaire

"You Too Can Be A Millionaire" by Noel M. Loomis is a science fiction novella set in a future ruled by a strict point system, where people must accumulate points to survive. The story centers on Mark Renner, who finds his life dull and meaningless under the control of the Central Audit Bureau, the group managing the system. Mark's world turns upside down when he meets Penelope, known as "Point-Plus-Pearlie," who shows him how to trick the system and collect points through clever and dishonest methods. As Mark and Penelope take on bigger schemes to reach his goal of a million points, they attract unwanted attention from the authorities, prompting Mark to wonder if chasing points is just a way to deal with a lifeless society. The tale highlights the emptiness of a life dedicated to chasing manufactured points, making for a story that is both interesting and makes you think.