The Brain Sinner

"The Brain Sinner" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction story set in the 1950's, where fear and misunderstanding surround emerging telepathic abilities in humans. The story follows a disguised alien invader who has come to Earth to assess the threat that 'psi-presence' poses to his invasion plans. As he navigates human society, he is thrust into a political conflict instigated by Councilman Benjamin Towne, who aims to exploit the alien's arrival to suppress Psi-Highs, or those with telepathic ability. Paul Faircloth, a telepath himself, embodies the struggle against societal prejudice as he tries to counter the alien's subtle manipulation and Towne's power grab. The book explores themes of prejudice, the misuse of power, and the potential for unity to overcome a common alien enemy that puts a thrilling twist on classic alien encounters.