The Year's Best Science Fiction 31 (2014)
"The Year's Best Science Fiction: Thirty-First Annual Collection", edited by Gardner Dozois, showcases some of the finest science fiction short stories published in 2013. This edition is a testament to the genre's breadth, including tales that range from philosophical explorations of humanity to deep-space adventures and dystopian futures. Here are summaries of a few standout stories in the collection:
"The Waiting Stars" by Aliette de Bodard
Set in de Bodard's Xuya universe, this Nebula Award-winning story examines the clash between human and machine intelligence, as well as the connection between memory, culture, and identity. It’s a rich, emotional exploration of a future where sentient ships serve as both family and history-keepers for a space-faring culture.
"The Girl-Thing Who Went Out for Sushi" by Pat Cadigan
Winner of the Hugo Award, this story is set on the edge of our solar system and follows a crew of workers who have physically transformed to survive in space. It tackles themes of identity, adaptation, and the nature of humanity in a humorous and thought-provoking way.
"The Road of Needles" by Caitlín R. Kiernan
This eerie story follows a woman working on a space station who must investigate the disappearance of her crew members, leading to an unsettling discovery. Kiernan weaves together horror and science fiction to create an atmospheric, tension-filled tale.
"Entangled" by Ian R. MacLeod
This story explores quantum entanglement as a metaphor for human relationships. MacLeod uses science fiction to investigate love, loss, and the complexities of human connection, creating a beautifully written and introspective piece.
"Fade to White" by Catherynne M. Valente
In a dystopian future, America is dealing with the aftermath of a nuclear war. Valente’s story is haunting and dark, with vivid world-building that delves into propaganda, gender roles, and control in a chillingly plausible future.
"Zero for Conduct" by Greg Egan
This story follows a young woman in a repressive society who dreams of being a scientist, reflecting Egan’s usual focus on scientific ideas and the struggle for intellectual freedom. It’s an inspiring and hopeful tale about defying cultural limitations and following one’s passion for discovery.
"The Memcordist" by Lavie Tidhar
In a world where people record their entire lives as "memcordists," Tidhar delves into issues of privacy, identity, and fame. The story is both a critique of social media and a look at the consequences of living publicly, with characters grappling with their public and private personas.
"The Year's Best Science Fiction: Thirty-First Annual Collection" is highly recommended for fans of thought-provoking, emotionally resonant, and well-crafted science fiction. Dozois has curated a collection that captures the state of science fiction in 2013, blending stories that are both grounded in contemporary concerns and imaginatively futuristic. This anthology offers something for everyone—hard science fiction, social commentary, rich character studies, and speculative tales that push the boundaries of the genre. It's a must-read for those who appreciate intelligent, varied, and expertly written science fiction.