The novel “The Whole Man”, also known as “Telepathist”, by John Brunner was published for the first time in 1964 restructuring three novellas published in previous years.

Gerald Howson was born in very unfortunate circumstances: his father was a terrorist who died before his birth and the baby shows various physical deformities. His mother has little interest in him so while he’s growing he has to learn quickly to fend for himself. For the young Gerald things change when he realizes he has telepathic abilities.

Telepaths are rare and their work is important in the course of diplomatic activities needed to resolve crises that may break out around the world. Gerald Howson has learned to trust no one but when his telepathic emissions are picked up by others like him he’s forced to choose between living in secret and try to change his live.