8 Comments
User's avatar
Yana Bostongirl's avatar

I like the unique take on alien-human relationships - especially through Pataki's perspective -

Expand full comment
Randall Hayes's avatar

Love the idea behind this one. For some reason I'm reminded of Gary Paulsen, though his stuff was more nature-oriented (maybe because of his own background as a wild child of alcoholics).

But even better, it reminded me of MY FIRST MISTER, a 2001 film I only saw recently with Leelee Sobieski as the goth-girl delinquent and Albert Brooks as the owner of an upscale clothing store who takes her under his wing.

https://tubitv.com/movies/100009894/my-first-mister

Expand full comment
Charlotte Pendragon's avatar

Wonderful storytelling David! When I think of earths cold winters I am reminded of a good friend of mine — and driving with him on one of our tours through Canada in late November. It was snowing and very, very cold. He had a T-shirt and shorts on with his window down. I about froze to death as I slept in the front seat next to him. Lol! He must be an alien of another kind.

Expand full comment
Chris DeCap's avatar

I appreciate your use of the word toque, you don’t see that anywhere but Canadian writing.

Expand full comment
Clement Charles's avatar

Really nice piece!

Expand full comment
Sandy Shaller's avatar

David, this is a wonderfully interesting situation. Pataki, and her role make a situation that I don't think I've ever encountered in a sci-fi story before. I especially love the Mendelians attitude toward their young. That was brilliantly laid out. Bravo.

Expand full comment
Jon (Animated)'s avatar

Pataki’s defiance and unwavering loyalty to the Mendelians create a fascinating narrative. Her perspective on home and belonging is so well written. It's a gripping story with sharp world-building and a rebellious spirit! I read it super fast, as I was hooked straight away.

Expand full comment
Jill Ebstein's avatar

Another show of immense creativity:

Mendelia’s air was based in carbon dioxide, whereas Earth’s was based in oxygen, and, therefore, despite failed attempts to create a breathable portable atmosphere source, Earth was a no-go area in terms of mobility.

How you do this, and incorporate subtle ideas of psychological guilt, delinquents, baseballs, thievery, and the like is truly amazing.

Thank you for the Mendelians who will surely arouse readers' curiosity.

Expand full comment