A Boy’s Best Friend is a short story by Isaac Asimov, published in March 1975 in the magazine Boys’ Life. The story follows Jimmy, a boy who has grown up on the Moon and whose only playmate is Robutt, a robot dog designed to keep him company. Together, they explore the lunar surface, sharing a special connection. One day, his father has a surprise for him that has arrived from Earth, something that could change his life.
Bloodchild is a short story by Octavia E. Butler, published in June 1984 in Asimov’s Science Fiction Magazine. The story follows Gan, a young human living on a reservation controlled by the Tlic, an alien species with whom humans have established a dependency relationship. From birth, Gan has been destined for a unique role within this society: he will be the bearer of the offspring of T’Gatoi, an influential Tlic who has taken care of his family. Without question, he has accepted his destiny until one night, he witnesses an event that forces him to reconsider.
The Lottery is a short story by Shirley Jackson, published on June 26, 1948, in The New Yorker. Set in a small rural town, it tells of the annual celebration of a community lottery that brings all its inhabitants together in the town square. On a sunny day in June, men, women, and children participate in the event with a disturbing naturalness, waiting expectantly for the draw. As the process progresses, details about the tradition and the rigid social structure that sustains it are revealed. What begins as a routine act hides a disturbing truth.
Bloodchild is a short story by Octavia E. Butler, published in June 1984 in Asimov’s Science Fiction Magazine. The story follows Gan, a young Terran who lives on a reservation governed by the Tlic, an alien species whose well-being depends on humans. Gan has grown up protected by T’Gatoi, an influential Tlic leader linked to his family since birth. However, underlying this coexistence is a disturbing pact that will test Gan’s beliefs and will.
The White Donkey is a short story by Ursula K. Le Guin, published in 1980 in the magazine TriQuarterly. The story follows Sita, a young woman who takes her goats to graze in the forest, where she discovers a mysterious white donkey with a horn on its forehead. Fascinated by its elegance and uniqueness, Sita visits it daily, offering flowers and sharing moments of silent companionship. As her bond with the animal grows stronger, at Sita’s home, her parents decide her fate.
Story of an Hour is a short story by Kate Chopin, published on December 6, 1894, in Vogue. It tells of a woman’s reaction to learning of her husband’s death in a train accident. Due to her fragile health, the news is communicated to her with great care by her sister and a family friend. After an initial moment of anguish, she isolates herself in her room, where she begins to experience a whirlwind of unexpected emotions. Through contemplation of the outside world, a new feeling grows within her, leading her to a profound revelation about her life and future.