Humanity

The Labyrinth

by Samuel Peralta

Night snow, winter, and an extreme wind chill mean ten minutes to a frozen death in open air. Alan Mathison is headed home on an icy highway, on a collision course that will test his humanity.

From award-winning author Samuel Peralta comes Humanity, a provocative short story that asks the question: What is it that makes us human?

Humanity is one of a series of standalone stories about a labyrinthine world where time travel is just beginning to be realized, where pervasive surveillance by telepaths is a part of life, where non-human self-awareness has begun to make humanity face difficult questions about itself.

Welcome to the Labyrinth. Welcome to Humanity.

Genres: Science Fiction

27 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 21, 2014

About the author

Samuel Peralta is a physicist and storyteller. He is most well-known in publishing as a poet, short story writer, and creator of the "Future Chronicles" anthologies, with over 20 bestselling titles to date.

Peralta's writing has been spotlighted in Best American Poetry, selected for Best American Science Fiction & Fantasy, and has won multiple awards, including from the UK Poetry Society and the Palanca Memorial Foundation.

He is a supporter and producer of independent films, one of which was nominated for a Golden Globe and another garnering an Emmy Award.

Peralta is the founder of the Lunar Codex, launching the works of 30,000 writers, artists, musicians, and filmmakers from over 155 countries, to the Moon.

Reviews

[Logan Streondj · Rating 3 out of 5]

A robot brings a man to tears as he learns to care. About 2,800 words or a 14 minute read.

This story paints a picture of a harsh, racist and uncaring humanity.

[Mel (Reviews In A Pinch) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Full Disclosure: I received a copy of this short story from the author in exchange for an honest review.

My Thoughts: What it means to be human has always been up for debate and as technology becomes more and more prevalent, the answer seems to change. In Humanity, Samuel Peralta gives you a glimpse into the world where this question defines each character from the very first page.

The story was fantastic. It grabs you from page one and doesn’t let go. I found myself questioning how I would react in a similar situation and the truth is you couldn’t know for sure unless it happens. I don’t really have to worry about it though because I doubt A.I. (artificial intelligence) will become that advanced within my lifetime. Humanity stuck with me too. I found myself still thinking about it days after I’d read it.

It’s very short and takes no time at all to read. It’s definitely worth reading though. I felt like it was such a quick look into this world that it could be seen as a short prequel. I do hope to see more from this world and hopefully in a full length novel (fingers crossed). I would recommend Humanity, especially to those with a love for short stories and futuristic technology.

For more reviews, check out Reviews in a Pinch today!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a gem. I received this as a gift and I loved it. It is a short story, prefer to say this upfront. Short stories that are well done, can be as engaging as a large book. They are concise and to the point. Which is what this story is. I read it then had to sit back and reflect on the whole story. I can't say to much about the story as it would contain spoilers. Which I never give. Humanity is a great name for this story. But, you must decide whose humanity. I feel I discovered the answer to that question and it opened my eyes. Buy this, savor it and reflect. That is what a great story brings to the table.

[Ginger · Rating 5 out of 5]

thought provoking

I enjoyed this story immensely as it posed the question of humanity being humane. What makes us real and what makes us just so much debris

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing good read no need to say more!