Future Tense Fiction: Stories of Tomorrow

This dynamic, dud-free anthology of 14 short stories written by some of speculative fiction’s greats provides gripping, convincing glimpses into various near futures that explore the interrelated advancement of technology, society, and human nature. In Nnedi Okorafor’s “Mother of Invention,” an abandoned pregnant woman’s life is endangered because of super-plants causing terrible allergies. Her hopelessness is balanced with the optimism of her smart house. The story is quiet and hopeful, and explores friendship and family. Meg Elison’s heart-wrenching “Safe Surrender,” in which humans intermarry and interbreed with aliens, looks at the stories people tell themselves about difference as well as what it means to find a home. Paolo Bacigalupi’s “Mika Model” also attempts to define the nature of humanity after an android murders her owner. Each author cleverly and thoroughly explores the benefits and consequences of change, making this essential reading for anyone intrigued by what might come next for humankind. (Oct.)