'Bloodchild' by Octavia E. Butler is a short story that delves into complex themes such as sexuality, race, human and alien interaction, and codependency. The plot explores a future where humans and aliens have a unique relationship pattern, offering a thought-provoking narrative that leaves readers feeling uneasy yet intrigued. Butler's writing style in 'Bloodchild' is described as deep, unsettling, and exploring psychological elements in the context of human and alien dynamics.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of coercion, bodily horror, invasive pregnancy, and the psychological effects of these experiences.
From The Publisher:
Six extraordinary stories from the author of Kindred, a master of modern science fiction—including a Hugo and Nebula award–winning novella. Octavia E. Butler’s classic “Bloodchild,” winner of both the Nebula and Hugo awards, anchors this collection of incomparable stories and essays.
“Bloodchild” is set on a distant planet where human children spend their lives preparing to become hosts for the offspring of the alien Tlic. Sometimes the procedure is harmless, but often it is not.
Also included is the Hugo Award–winning “Speech Sounds,” about a near future in which humans must adapt after an apocalyptic event robs them of their ability to speak. “The Evening and the Morning and the Night,” another esteemed title in this collection, is a Nebula Award finalist.
In these pages, Butler shows us life on Earth and amongst the stars, telling her tales with characteristic imagination and clarity. This ebook features an illustrated biography of Octavia E. Butler including rare images from the author’s estate.
Ratings (16)
Incredible (5) | |
Loved It (8) | |
Liked It (1) | |
It Was OK (1) | |
Hated It (1) |
Reader Stats (39):
Read It (18) | |
Currently Reading (1) | |
Want To Read (14) | |
Not Interested (6) |
1 comment(s)
Finding this book felt like a gift. I thought I had read all of Octavia Butler, and these came along just after a read a beautiful Le Guin novel.
Good science fiction confronts us with questions about ourselves, our world, our choices. Butler goes even further by bringing you right up against the most uncomfortable of these questions. Her books resonate with you on a visceral level.
What can you read after
Bloodchild?
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