Sci-Fi

Pygmalion's Spectacles

This story explores the boundaries between reality and illusion, questioning the nature of both as Burke experiences a vividly alternative existence within the virtual world.

Sci-Fi

Saknarth

Set on Mars, this story revolves around Saknarth, a Master Astrologer at the Imperial Observatory. Despite skepticism towards astrology, Saknarth discovers lights on the dark side of Earth, challenging his and his society's beliefs.

Sci-Fi

Second Variety

This story delves into themes of trust, deception, and the unforeseen consequences of advanced warfare technology, as the line between friend and foe becomes dangerously blurred.

Sci-Fi

When the Sun Went Out

This tale unfolds amidst the existential crisis of a civilization facing its end, highlighting human adaptability and resilience in the face of cosmic events.

Sci-Fi

The Big Trip Up Yonder

Set in a future where anti-aging medicine has dramatically extended human lifespans. We focus on Gramps Ford, a 172-year-old man, and his extended family, who all live together in a cramped apartment.

Sci-Fi

The Eyes Have It

A humorous and satirical short story that plays with the idiosyncrasies of the English language. The protagonist becomes convinced of an alien invasion after misinterpreting figurative language in a book as literal descriptions.

Sci-Fi

The Stainless Steel Rat

A story about "Slippery Jim" diGriz, a highly skilled and cunning criminal. DiGriz, known for his expertise in executing elaborate and ingenious heists, finds himself pursued by the Special Corps.

Sci-Fi

The Star

A science fiction tale about a new star, formed from a collision between two celestial bodies, which dramatically impacts Earth. This celestial event causes global calamities like floods and earthquakes, fundamentally altering Earth's environment and humanity's future.

Sci-Fi

Beyond Lies the Wub

A story about a spaceship crew that encounters a creature called a "wub" on Mars. Initially considered just a large, docile animal, the wub surprises the crew by demonstrating the ability to speak and engage in intellectual conversations.

Sci-Fi

The Thought-feeders

This narrative explores themes of intellectual consumption and the nature of consciousness, as the characters interact with these extraordinary beings and confront the challenges of their unique situation.

Sci-Fi

Youth

A science fiction story about two boys, Slim and Red, who find alien creatures and hope to use them to join a circus.

Sci-Fi

2 B R 0 2 B

Vonnegut paints a dystopian future with strict population control, Edward K. Wehling, Jr. is in a hospital where his wife is giving birth to triplets. Each birth requires three volunteers for euthanasia. The story delves into the emotional and ethical dilemmas in this tightly regulated society.