Remain Alert

Lesson #1 in intergalactic mixology: VIPs take it floated, not stirred. Explore the farthest reaches of the galaxy in Kate Sheeran Swed's newest collection of science fiction stories. In "Chosen," an intergenerational spaceship returns to Earth after disaster strikes; in "Ugly Earthling," an ambitious chef attempts to fry her way across the universe; and in "It's All Fun and Games Until Someone Usurps the Galaxy," a Supreme Galactic Emperor takes on an ambitious building project under dubious circumstances. Absurdity and tragedy commingle in tales where space travel is run-of-the-mill, time can be recovered, and second chances hold the key to survival.