cover image L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future, Volume XXIV

L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future, Volume XXIV

L. Ron Hubbard. Galaxy Press (CA), $7.99 (503pp) ISBN 978-1-59212-374-2

This latest collection of thirteen science-fiction and fantasy stories from novice authors upholds the high standards set by previous volumes in the series. In Erin Cashier's compelling post-apocalyptic tale ""Cruciger,"" 30 WC Planet Builder Duxa, an intelligent spacecraft, undertakes a mission to recreate humanity on a terra-formed world after a plague destroys nearly all human life on Earth. Duxa's struggle to accomplish her mission is a sophisticated exploration of morality and faith. Kim A. Gillett's beautifully written ""The Bird Reader's Granddaughter,"" a narrative of prophecy and fate, follows teenager Catia as she tries to learn the seer's craft from her grandmother. Based on these efforts, fans of the fantasy genre need not worry about an infusion of fresh blood; readers can expect more gripping, imaginative creations from these authors, and others represented in this volume, in the future.