What To Change

by Robert Collins

What To Change (short story, 3400 words): Doug Patterson is nearing 30 and feels his life has been one mistake after the other. A mysterious professor sends him a letter, offering him the chance to go back in time to change his life. Will Doug take that chance? If he does, what will he change?

First published in “Aphelion,” Volume 7, Issue 73, August 2003.

9 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2011

About the author

I write science fiction and fantasy. I've sold over 100 short stories. I have multiple novels and series available.

I try to live minimally. I'm hoping to one day live in a tiny house.

Reviews

[Franz McLaren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Robert Collins has a refreshing style that makes the reader feel as though he is sitting with the author having a chat. In his short story "What to Change", Mr. Collins takes a tried and true sci-fi premise and converts it into a modern day fable. Many of us have wondered what we would say to ourselves if we could go back in time. How would we change to past to improve the present? Mr. Collin's protagonist gets just this opportunity. I will not spoil the story by telling you how the character utilized it, but I will say that there is a valuable lesson taught and, at least for me, learned. In spite of the fact that it was a learning experience it was a lot of fun to read.