Carl from Stainless Steel Droppings, is hosting the Out of This World mini-challenge this weekend as a part of both the Sci-Fi Experience and the challenge in Dewey’s memory. The idea is just to read at least one Science Fiction short story over the weekend. Carl even provides a link to a fabulous online resource to find them!

The Cold Equations by Tom Godwin

He was not alone.

In the year 2178, EDS pilot, Barton is taking a spacecraft toward the planet Woden, carrying on board serum for six gravely ill men. But, Barton makes a discovery which will create a moral dilemma of the highest order.

My Thoughts:

About as powerful a short story as your likely to read. 4/5

Read the story online here. [Note: Avoid reading the first paragraph! As it gives the ending away! If you spoil yourself, it’s your own fault!]

Through Thy Bounty by Lucy A Snyder

I stare down at the naked body of the boy on the butcher block, as my mother’s nightmare washes through me.

Human prisoner and talented chef must prepare delicious meals for her captors the Jagaren. The more delicious the meal, the more comfortable her cell for the night. Only one problem, each meal feature one main ingredient, other humans.

My Thoughts:

Gruesome, really gruesome. But also very entertaining, with a killer ending. 4/5

Read the story online here.

The Nine Billion Names of God by Arthur C Clarke

"This is a slightly unusual request," said Dr. Wagner, with what he hoped was commendable restraint.

“The Nine Billion Names of God” follows three employees of a computer company as they sell, deliver and maintain a relatively large and fast computer to a group of Tibetan monks. The monks want the computer to help them print out all the possible names of God.

My Thoughts

Well it wouldn’t be right to read at least one of the masters classics at some point during the Sci Fi Experiences, and taking a look at one of his short stories works for me. The Best Science Fiction blog, praised it for it’s ‘nice surprise ending’ and while I saw it coming from about half way through, it was a satisfying one. Most Enjoyable.

Read the story online, here.

Related posts:

1. Out of This World Mini Challenge [Sunday]
2. World Book Day 2008
3. Saving the World: And Other Extreme Sports (Maximum Ride, Book #3) – James Patterson