Sci-Fi
The Marching Morons
This story explores themes of intelligence, societal manipulation, and the ethical dilemmas of managing a world where the majority are incapable of contributing meaningfully to society's progress.
Sci-Fi
Exploring themes of technological advancement and its impact on society. Often set in futuristic or alien worlds, these stories addressed scientific discoveries, space travel, and dystopian futures. Influenced by rapid industrialization, they combined adventure with social commentary, questioning humanity’s place in the universe. Writers like H.G. Wells and Jules Verne were prominent, blending imagination with emerging scientific concepts to captivate readers.
Sci-Fi
Out of Nowhere
A science fiction tale involving Valnar, a time traveler who inadvertently influences the rise of a mental dictator, Dodson. In an attempt to rectify this, Valnar and Joel Barlow, a member of a resistance organization, embark on a mission to confront Dodson.
Sci-Fi
Pogo Planet
A sci-fi adventure about Ajax Calkins, who dreams of becoming a great explorer. Landing on a newly discovered planet, Midplanet, he declares himself Emperor, only to find the world inhabited by kangaroo-like beings and intelligent fleas.
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.