Games

Name: Games
Author: Katherine MacLean

By Katherine MacLean

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Science-Fiction & Fantasy Short Stories

About This Book

A young boy's vivid pretend warfare gradually overlaps with the telepathic attempt of an imprisoned biochemist to transmit guarded research; scenes alternate between the child's shifting personas and the scientist's hunger-strike confinement as authorities pressure him to reveal a biotechnological secret. Their minds briefly fuse, collapsing the boundary between play and dangerous adult knowledge, while the narrative examines moral choice under coercion, the loneliness of expertise, and how imagination, memory, and ethical responsibility can intersect in moments of extreme vulnerability.

About the Author

Katherine MacLean

Katherine MacLean was an American science fiction writer known for her thought-provoking narratives and exploration of complex themes. Active primarily in the mid-20th century, she contributed significantly to the genre with works that often blended speculative elements with social commentary. Her notable titles include "Contagion," which delves into the implications of disease and societal response, and "The Man Who Staked the Stars," reflecting her interest in space and human ambition. MacLean's writing is characterized by its imaginative plots and insightful character development, making her a respected figure in the literary heritage of science fiction.