“Pupa Knows Best”
1968-10-00
novelette
By James Tiptree, Jr.

Alternate Titles:
“Help”


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Synopsis

Earth has been in touch with a number of alien races, but a new one shows up and places what seem to be bombs in orbit around Earth. Then other aliens arrive.

History

First publication: If, October 1968

Review

This touches on a pretty deep SF subject, but does so in Tiptree’s usual humorous and satirical way. The question is asked what would happen if aliens came to earth and saw themselves as missionaries. It is a subject that other SF stories have dealt with. Tiptree reimagines it in her style, making this version much more enjoyable and interesting. Tiptree has a unique talent for taking heavy subjects and making them lighthearted to read. A recommended story.


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We have the story in these editions:

Ten Thousand Light-Years from Home, paperback, Ace, 1973-07-00