Short Reviews: Robert Reed

"The Boy" [permanent link]. A rather contemporary tale set in a future where the social order of men and women have shifted and one woman may need to make a choice about whether to help a young boy who, one day, asks her for some flowers.
Found in Oct/Nov 2001 Asimov's Science Fiction
"Coelacants" [permanent link]. A weird tale told from multiple viewpoints, this story looks at the various branches of humanity in the future, ranging from the somewhat contemporary to the barely understandable. In hindsight, the title of the story possibly has some relationship to the tale.
Found in Mar 2002 Fantasy & Science Fiction
"Killing the Morrow" [permanent link]. A thoughtful but disturbing story about one person in a world of people being compelled to do various jobs. They appear to be preparing to receive 'visitors'; but from where. The explanation and the results when the visitors arrive should keep you fascinated until the end.
Get from Fictionwise
"Oracles" [permanent link]. An interesting take on the usual tale about mankind meeting aliens. A former Science Fiction writer is at a conference with various aliens when he receives an offer that could change the course of development of mankind. Should he take it and what are the consequences if he doesn't?
Found in Jan 2002 Asimov's Science Fiction | Read from Asimov's Science Fiction website