Written in Light

Young (Spirit Seeker) explores visions of the future in 18 stories that ably demonstrate his versatility and ability to imagine convincing alien societies. The title story, in which a treelike alien architect partners with a human girl to survive a dangerous environment, conjures a vivid world that’s revisited several times in the collection. Regardless of setting, Young’s stories reliably provide both entertainment and food for thought. “Opportunity/Chance” puts an AI spin on the saga of a Mars rover, while “No Visitors Beyond This Point” turns an interstellar diplomatic incident into a chance for humanity to prosper if one man does the right thing. “A Talent Beyond My Talents” is a futuristic fable set in an Earth transformed and left behind, and Young grants the story a mythic feel. Meanwhile, “Blankets” and “Viewpoint” offer provocative new takes on futuristic military conflicts. While some of the shorter pieces feel like vignettes or end too abruptly, the entries succeed more often than not. This is a solid showcase of Young’s imagination and skills. [em](Aug.) [/em]