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First Contact
Hello World
HELLO WORLD represents a decade of science fiction by author Peter Cawdron. This collection of sixteen short stories and novellas, including four previously unpublished stories, will take you out of this world.
Featuring...
* Hello World
* The Man Who Remembered Today
* Mirror, Mirror
* Butch & Sundance
* Killer
* Revolution
* Lost Stars
* Natural
* Heil Hitler
* The End
* Don't Tell
* Abraham
* More to Learn
* Suffer the Children
* Deja Vu
* The Darkness Between the Stars
Featuring...
* Hello World
* The Man Who Remembered Today
* Mirror, Mirror
* Butch & Sundance
* Killer
* Revolution
* Lost Stars
* Natural
* Heil Hitler
* The End
* Don't Tell
* Abraham
* More to Learn
* Suffer the Children
* Deja Vu
* The Darkness Between the Stars
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First published March 31, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 4, 2019
“There is that which no one can teach, that which each must discover for themselves.”
A short, poignant and altogether sad story about humans and their mis beliefs, the psychotic and irrational behavior towards the acceptance of reality, in this case, the aliens. We still have a lot to question and learn, in a more rational way. A Thought provoking tale , based in sociology and human behavioral. Excellent read!
A short, poignant and altogether sad story about humans and their mis beliefs, the psychotic and irrational behavior towards the acceptance of reality, in this case, the aliens. We still have a lot to question and learn, in a more rational way. A Thought provoking tale , based in sociology and human behavioral. Excellent read!
July 22, 2020
Dark and entertaining
Loved these stories from first to last. There are dark corners in all these stories but first contact probably won't be a Disney family comedy. The writing is great as usual.
The number one story for me was the tribute to Vonnegut. He wrote a story that was so convincing that I kept forgetting that it wasn't Vonnegut. I didn't think it was possible to mimic another writer so well. All the other stories are splendid also but that one blew me away. This should be a good read for most any reader.
Loved these stories from first to last. There are dark corners in all these stories but first contact probably won't be a Disney family comedy. The writing is great as usual.
The number one story for me was the tribute to Vonnegut. He wrote a story that was so convincing that I kept forgetting that it wasn't Vonnegut. I didn't think it was possible to mimic another writer so well. All the other stories are splendid also but that one blew me away. This should be a good read for most any reader.
December 30, 2019
Hello World was initially just a single short story of the same name, telling the captivating story of an exceptional young woman’s bravery when confronted with a situation that seems totally inconceivable.
However, Cawdron has done the Inconceivable, and put together a truly inspired collection of extraordinary tales that show that he is one of the most underrated talents of our age. Cawdron writes some masterfully, creating powerful tales that will leave you thinking about their endings for days afterwards they are so good. Following are individual reviews of each of the stories, enjoy one of the best anthologies you will ever read.
Hello World – 4.5/5 – This is the story of a young woman who goes to see an ageing professor who has a remarkable tale to tell – he claims that aliens have made first contact via Twitter! Of course there is outrage at his claims, but he points out that the aliens just want to learn about our culture, and that Twitter is the place to do it.
The young lady is fascinated by his claims, until suddenly she is caught up in a maelstrom of events, and must suddenly decide, how much does she believe in this professor? How far is she willing to push her convictions?
This is a really fascinating story of one woman’s crusade to find the truth, with help from her boyfriend, and about how First Contact might not have been with aliens coming to Earth, or Astronauts going to space, but through a tool no one would every expect….. Social Media…. Outstanding Start to the Series!
The Man who Remembered Today – 4/5 – This is an interesting short story about a man who cannot remember yesterday, but he can remember today, the thing is, today hasn't happened yet...
Even worse is, today has some major things that are going to unfold, what should he do? Can he change the future?
It makes you wonder, what would you do?
This book is a fascinating thrill ride through a one man’s desperate struggle to understand what is going on with his life. Cawdron is very clever at weaving a brilliant story, but at the same time, making you think about important social values and the prejudices that are so easily dismissed in todays society, social stereotyping, not to mention how easily we all forget about terrorism and laid back about things so quickly. This is a powerful and gritty character driven story that has a very interesting take on Deja-vu at its extreme!
Once again, Peter Cawdron delivers a great story that you will read in a single go as you won't be able to put it down.
Mirror, Mirror – 4/5 – story of alien invasion with a difference, as is always the case with Peter Cawdron.
The aliens were in ships, nuked, crashed to earth, now they are in machines on Earth. Kids think that there are no such things as Monsters, that there are only Machines. They sneak out to go and see a ‘Dead Machine’, however, they get more than they bargained for. There is a live one there. They free it and see it for what it really is, nothing more than a scared little alien that is trying to help. It is a peaceful creature. Then they meet a Soldier who tells them the truth of the war, that THEY are on the wrong side. When Jenny is shot by her own Mother with a Plasma Rifle and dies, the alien saves her, and she has to decide – her daughter or her false principles.
Butch & Sundance – 4.3/5 – This story is set in the ‘Four Horseman’ universe, and is a futuristic tale of a Bounty Hunter sent to get a Mark. However, this is no ordinary Bounty, and it appears that he is not the only person looking for him, with a lot of others not only looking, but willing to shut down entire sections of the country, kill people, do whatever is needed. Our Bounty Hunter realises he has a lot more than just a ‘Bounty’, but also realises that to get his reward, that he will not be able to bring him in in the usual manner, he has to think of something very clever….
This is a really well written and intelligent story, with a lot of twists and turns and subterfuge, it will leave you not only guessing, but really enthralled.
Revolution – 4.5/5 – Whilst flying back from Russia, Phil, an ordinary guy, has a rather intimate and extreme encounter with a beautiful brunette on the plane. However, all is not what it seems, and Phil’s life quickly spirals out of control in this futuristic techno-thriller, that is brutally fast paced, so that you will be leaning forward into the book as you read, and at the same time, intriguing and intellectual to make it stand-out from all the others. This is an exceptional story and one I just don’t want to give away any spoilers. This story shows why Cawdron is such an amazing Author, with the ability to deliver captivating, remarkable and stunning stories that you just can’t forget.
Lost Stars – 4.5/5 – This is one of the truly beautiful and magnificent tales in this book, and you will just be in awe of Cawdron’s story telling ability, his ability to craft these amazing worlds, and build such intricate detail within them in such a short time frame. The story follows a thrilling adventure had by a young woman in a steampunk universe, and the challenges she faces when the ‘Bladder Ship’ she is aboard is attacked by Pirates. They seek only one thing, and in a daring bit of bravery, the young woman does all she can to save it, but as a result, is taken prisoner herself.
Now she must use her wits, her bravery, and other skills she didn’t know she had to try and save her own life and escape, before she ends up at the end of a plank, which in a Universe with flying ships, is not a good thing.
This is a brilliant story, lots of fun, with a beautiful and amazing world, and as usual, extraordinary Characters, that truly enrich Cawdron’s marvellous world. This is a wonderful story.
Killer – 6/5 – This is one of my favourite shorts in this collection. It is based in the Nick Webb “Legacy Fleet” series, which is just an exceptional read. Cawdron has created a story that weaves a tale of legend into the main story of ‘Constitution’, both the ship and the main story, without actually interfering with the timeline itself, providing a thrilling bit of backstory, and additional reading for those that love the Legacy Fleet universe. The story itself follows a young woman with the nickname ‘Killer’, based on her name, not her skills though, as she is better known for being one of the best pilots in the fleet, and also one of the gentlest. This is a story of heroes, and is brilliant.
Heil Hitler – 4.5/5 – This is a really good thriller, you have no idea what is going on until it gets right into the story, and until then, you just have no clue. What would you do if your partner greeted you in the morning with not ‘Morning Hon’ or their normal greeting, but ‘Heil Hitler, mein frau’? One woman begins a desperate struggle to find out what has happened to her husband for the safety of her family, only what she discovers is something beyond the scope of her imagination. This is a very clever, very interesting read. It is a difficult to discuss without giving too much away, but needless to say, as usual, Cawdron’s character work is brilliant, and he has created a rather interesting world for his characters to play in. The technology is also rather magnificent.
The End – 4.8/5 – The end is a very clever story, one that looks at the question of Artificial Intelligence. The story does have a strong aspect of Hard Sci-Fi, but it is integrated very cleanly into the story, so it doesn’t get to bogged down.
It follows two characters Joe and Avika, and their AI, SALLY, as they are looking for the answers on AI, can you just program an AI, or does it need to evolve? As they start to look at the question, they start to run an experiment with SALLY that has a fascinating outcome.
This is an outstanding story, very well written, SALLY is the best character of course, but it is the premise of the story, and how it unfolds that are the truly exceptional parts of this book. One not to be missed!
Don’t Tell – 5/5 – Set in a Dystopian future in which there are people with telepathic gifts, all of whom are required to now register and lose their freedom. One such individual has formed a group to fight this, and as with all things of this kind, it has turned to violence. This story though, is about an Interview, between one of the best-known reporters, and the head of the organisation, a live interview to be aired on TV. The interview is fascinating, as this mysterious person discusses what it is like to be a telepath. This story is some of the best Character writing in this collection, and shows how Cawdron is one of the finest Authors of Character driven stories in this genre. You just won’t believe the ending of this story, you will go back and re-read it just to make sure.
Abraham – 5/5 – Abraham is a fascinating look at a future that tries to accommodate for those communities that do not want to move forward with the ever changing face of Technology. This is a wonderful combination of a Sci-Fi future in which we have evolved into a space faring race, but at the same time, have tried to allow for the simplicity of the old ways, such as the Amish, who still reject technology, for the most part. This story is something that is really different to the usual Sci-fi adventure, and it is a shame it is only a short, it would make a fascinating, and rather extraordinary read, as we follow the lives of young Jed, Amos, their Father Abraham, and their Mother Stacy and sister Georgia, as they deal with Amish life, and its possible changes under the Boston Accords. This is Sci-Fi at its best.
More to Learn – 4.7/5 – An alien space craft appears deep in our solar system, and it is obvious it is coming to Earth, but it will take months to get here. As usual, there is the typical panic, but as the months drag on, publicity fades, and so does public interest, until suddenly, the ship is above us, and everyone panics again. But as the ship parks itself in geosynchronous orbit above the Earth, in an area no one would have thought of, the questions start to get asked, why are they here? What do they want? Cawdron, in his usual creative and brilliant manner, has written a story that explores the underlying beauty of our planet, and the failings of humanity, and bundles them together in a rather exceptional tale that will leave you sitting there afterwards, pondering things. This story is Cawdron at his finest.
Suffer the Children – 6/5 – This is one of the longer stories in the collection, but it is well worth it. It follows those called the Actrixmatrian’s, a species that lives a long way from Earth, and sees in 4 Dimensions, not just 3. Through their senses, we are told of several stories that are interconnected, 2 reporters, Nancy and Kurt, as well as 2 Humans that have been abducted to live in an Actrixmatrian Zoo, Dakota and Billy. Nancy and Kurt’s part is somewhat small, but crucial, and is very clever, you have to pay attention to fully understand it.
The extraordinary story of Dakota and Billy however, and their time in captivity is fascinating, from their interaction with other, to the interaction with the Atctrixmatrian charged with looking after them which they call ‘Smear’ as the Arc has a distinctive mark that separates it from every other Arc. This part of the story is enthralling, and shows the true Master that Cawdron is. It is a combination of Hard Sci-fi, integrated with some Science Fiction, a combination of the two to provide this captivating tale that will leave you stunned, and thinking about it for days after, the sign of any truly inspired story. Suffer the Children is one of the creative highlights of this collection, and deserves far more than a 5 for its incredible characters, and extraordinary story telling.
Déjà vu – 4.5/5 – It is difficult to discuss this without giving too much away, but you will quickly discover that the story has a ‘Groundhog Day’ quality to it, as a particular segment replays over and over for a group of astronauts in space, but the main question is why? And this is the really interesting and truly fascinating part of the story, and you find yourself getting very quickly getting sucking into this thriller, trying to work out what is going on. This is one that you have to read in a single sitting, you won’t be able to put it down, so make sure you allow the time, it’s brilliant!!
The Darkness between the Stars – 5/5 – The final short story is one of my favourites in the collection, as it is far more scientific in nature than any of the other stories, but still has such a great story attached to it. Two astronauts, Masters and Andretti are on a mission in the Oort Cloud, seeking out possible future missions for humanity, when Masters thinks she hears some voices. At the same time, she has a critical medical incident, a bleed on her brain. Her Commander goes to turn the ship around after doing all he can for Masters, but she begs him to go back, and when he does, they discover something that neither of them ever thought possible.
This story is one of Cawdron’s best short stories, capturing his ability to integrate fascinating bits of science into science fiction, and make a thrilling, and outstanding story that is driven by exceptional character work, and leaves you thinking about the story and the science behind it for days afterword. This story is why Cawdron is a true Science Fiction Master
Overall, this is just a beautiful collection of short stories, and anyone who loves to read will get something out of Cawdron’s amazing work, do yourself a favour, and say “Hello” to the “World’ that is Peter Cawdron
However, Cawdron has done the Inconceivable, and put together a truly inspired collection of extraordinary tales that show that he is one of the most underrated talents of our age. Cawdron writes some masterfully, creating powerful tales that will leave you thinking about their endings for days afterwards they are so good. Following are individual reviews of each of the stories, enjoy one of the best anthologies you will ever read.
Hello World – 4.5/5 – This is the story of a young woman who goes to see an ageing professor who has a remarkable tale to tell – he claims that aliens have made first contact via Twitter! Of course there is outrage at his claims, but he points out that the aliens just want to learn about our culture, and that Twitter is the place to do it.
The young lady is fascinated by his claims, until suddenly she is caught up in a maelstrom of events, and must suddenly decide, how much does she believe in this professor? How far is she willing to push her convictions?
This is a really fascinating story of one woman’s crusade to find the truth, with help from her boyfriend, and about how First Contact might not have been with aliens coming to Earth, or Astronauts going to space, but through a tool no one would every expect….. Social Media…. Outstanding Start to the Series!
The Man who Remembered Today – 4/5 – This is an interesting short story about a man who cannot remember yesterday, but he can remember today, the thing is, today hasn't happened yet...
Even worse is, today has some major things that are going to unfold, what should he do? Can he change the future?
It makes you wonder, what would you do?
This book is a fascinating thrill ride through a one man’s desperate struggle to understand what is going on with his life. Cawdron is very clever at weaving a brilliant story, but at the same time, making you think about important social values and the prejudices that are so easily dismissed in todays society, social stereotyping, not to mention how easily we all forget about terrorism and laid back about things so quickly. This is a powerful and gritty character driven story that has a very interesting take on Deja-vu at its extreme!
Once again, Peter Cawdron delivers a great story that you will read in a single go as you won't be able to put it down.
Mirror, Mirror – 4/5 – story of alien invasion with a difference, as is always the case with Peter Cawdron.
The aliens were in ships, nuked, crashed to earth, now they are in machines on Earth. Kids think that there are no such things as Monsters, that there are only Machines. They sneak out to go and see a ‘Dead Machine’, however, they get more than they bargained for. There is a live one there. They free it and see it for what it really is, nothing more than a scared little alien that is trying to help. It is a peaceful creature. Then they meet a Soldier who tells them the truth of the war, that THEY are on the wrong side. When Jenny is shot by her own Mother with a Plasma Rifle and dies, the alien saves her, and she has to decide – her daughter or her false principles.
Butch & Sundance – 4.3/5 – This story is set in the ‘Four Horseman’ universe, and is a futuristic tale of a Bounty Hunter sent to get a Mark. However, this is no ordinary Bounty, and it appears that he is not the only person looking for him, with a lot of others not only looking, but willing to shut down entire sections of the country, kill people, do whatever is needed. Our Bounty Hunter realises he has a lot more than just a ‘Bounty’, but also realises that to get his reward, that he will not be able to bring him in in the usual manner, he has to think of something very clever….
This is a really well written and intelligent story, with a lot of twists and turns and subterfuge, it will leave you not only guessing, but really enthralled.
Revolution – 4.5/5 – Whilst flying back from Russia, Phil, an ordinary guy, has a rather intimate and extreme encounter with a beautiful brunette on the plane. However, all is not what it seems, and Phil’s life quickly spirals out of control in this futuristic techno-thriller, that is brutally fast paced, so that you will be leaning forward into the book as you read, and at the same time, intriguing and intellectual to make it stand-out from all the others. This is an exceptional story and one I just don’t want to give away any spoilers. This story shows why Cawdron is such an amazing Author, with the ability to deliver captivating, remarkable and stunning stories that you just can’t forget.
Lost Stars – 4.5/5 – This is one of the truly beautiful and magnificent tales in this book, and you will just be in awe of Cawdron’s story telling ability, his ability to craft these amazing worlds, and build such intricate detail within them in such a short time frame. The story follows a thrilling adventure had by a young woman in a steampunk universe, and the challenges she faces when the ‘Bladder Ship’ she is aboard is attacked by Pirates. They seek only one thing, and in a daring bit of bravery, the young woman does all she can to save it, but as a result, is taken prisoner herself.
Now she must use her wits, her bravery, and other skills she didn’t know she had to try and save her own life and escape, before she ends up at the end of a plank, which in a Universe with flying ships, is not a good thing.
This is a brilliant story, lots of fun, with a beautiful and amazing world, and as usual, extraordinary Characters, that truly enrich Cawdron’s marvellous world. This is a wonderful story.
Killer – 6/5 – This is one of my favourite shorts in this collection. It is based in the Nick Webb “Legacy Fleet” series, which is just an exceptional read. Cawdron has created a story that weaves a tale of legend into the main story of ‘Constitution’, both the ship and the main story, without actually interfering with the timeline itself, providing a thrilling bit of backstory, and additional reading for those that love the Legacy Fleet universe. The story itself follows a young woman with the nickname ‘Killer’, based on her name, not her skills though, as she is better known for being one of the best pilots in the fleet, and also one of the gentlest. This is a story of heroes, and is brilliant.
Heil Hitler – 4.5/5 – This is a really good thriller, you have no idea what is going on until it gets right into the story, and until then, you just have no clue. What would you do if your partner greeted you in the morning with not ‘Morning Hon’ or their normal greeting, but ‘Heil Hitler, mein frau’? One woman begins a desperate struggle to find out what has happened to her husband for the safety of her family, only what she discovers is something beyond the scope of her imagination. This is a very clever, very interesting read. It is a difficult to discuss without giving too much away, but needless to say, as usual, Cawdron’s character work is brilliant, and he has created a rather interesting world for his characters to play in. The technology is also rather magnificent.
The End – 4.8/5 – The end is a very clever story, one that looks at the question of Artificial Intelligence. The story does have a strong aspect of Hard Sci-Fi, but it is integrated very cleanly into the story, so it doesn’t get to bogged down.
It follows two characters Joe and Avika, and their AI, SALLY, as they are looking for the answers on AI, can you just program an AI, or does it need to evolve? As they start to look at the question, they start to run an experiment with SALLY that has a fascinating outcome.
This is an outstanding story, very well written, SALLY is the best character of course, but it is the premise of the story, and how it unfolds that are the truly exceptional parts of this book. One not to be missed!
Don’t Tell – 5/5 – Set in a Dystopian future in which there are people with telepathic gifts, all of whom are required to now register and lose their freedom. One such individual has formed a group to fight this, and as with all things of this kind, it has turned to violence. This story though, is about an Interview, between one of the best-known reporters, and the head of the organisation, a live interview to be aired on TV. The interview is fascinating, as this mysterious person discusses what it is like to be a telepath. This story is some of the best Character writing in this collection, and shows how Cawdron is one of the finest Authors of Character driven stories in this genre. You just won’t believe the ending of this story, you will go back and re-read it just to make sure.
Abraham – 5/5 – Abraham is a fascinating look at a future that tries to accommodate for those communities that do not want to move forward with the ever changing face of Technology. This is a wonderful combination of a Sci-Fi future in which we have evolved into a space faring race, but at the same time, have tried to allow for the simplicity of the old ways, such as the Amish, who still reject technology, for the most part. This story is something that is really different to the usual Sci-fi adventure, and it is a shame it is only a short, it would make a fascinating, and rather extraordinary read, as we follow the lives of young Jed, Amos, their Father Abraham, and their Mother Stacy and sister Georgia, as they deal with Amish life, and its possible changes under the Boston Accords. This is Sci-Fi at its best.
More to Learn – 4.7/5 – An alien space craft appears deep in our solar system, and it is obvious it is coming to Earth, but it will take months to get here. As usual, there is the typical panic, but as the months drag on, publicity fades, and so does public interest, until suddenly, the ship is above us, and everyone panics again. But as the ship parks itself in geosynchronous orbit above the Earth, in an area no one would have thought of, the questions start to get asked, why are they here? What do they want? Cawdron, in his usual creative and brilliant manner, has written a story that explores the underlying beauty of our planet, and the failings of humanity, and bundles them together in a rather exceptional tale that will leave you sitting there afterwards, pondering things. This story is Cawdron at his finest.
Suffer the Children – 6/5 – This is one of the longer stories in the collection, but it is well worth it. It follows those called the Actrixmatrian’s, a species that lives a long way from Earth, and sees in 4 Dimensions, not just 3. Through their senses, we are told of several stories that are interconnected, 2 reporters, Nancy and Kurt, as well as 2 Humans that have been abducted to live in an Actrixmatrian Zoo, Dakota and Billy. Nancy and Kurt’s part is somewhat small, but crucial, and is very clever, you have to pay attention to fully understand it.
The extraordinary story of Dakota and Billy however, and their time in captivity is fascinating, from their interaction with other, to the interaction with the Atctrixmatrian charged with looking after them which they call ‘Smear’ as the Arc has a distinctive mark that separates it from every other Arc. This part of the story is enthralling, and shows the true Master that Cawdron is. It is a combination of Hard Sci-fi, integrated with some Science Fiction, a combination of the two to provide this captivating tale that will leave you stunned, and thinking about it for days after, the sign of any truly inspired story. Suffer the Children is one of the creative highlights of this collection, and deserves far more than a 5 for its incredible characters, and extraordinary story telling.
Déjà vu – 4.5/5 – It is difficult to discuss this without giving too much away, but you will quickly discover that the story has a ‘Groundhog Day’ quality to it, as a particular segment replays over and over for a group of astronauts in space, but the main question is why? And this is the really interesting and truly fascinating part of the story, and you find yourself getting very quickly getting sucking into this thriller, trying to work out what is going on. This is one that you have to read in a single sitting, you won’t be able to put it down, so make sure you allow the time, it’s brilliant!!
The Darkness between the Stars – 5/5 – The final short story is one of my favourites in the collection, as it is far more scientific in nature than any of the other stories, but still has such a great story attached to it. Two astronauts, Masters and Andretti are on a mission in the Oort Cloud, seeking out possible future missions for humanity, when Masters thinks she hears some voices. At the same time, she has a critical medical incident, a bleed on her brain. Her Commander goes to turn the ship around after doing all he can for Masters, but she begs him to go back, and when he does, they discover something that neither of them ever thought possible.
This story is one of Cawdron’s best short stories, capturing his ability to integrate fascinating bits of science into science fiction, and make a thrilling, and outstanding story that is driven by exceptional character work, and leaves you thinking about the story and the science behind it for days afterword. This story is why Cawdron is a true Science Fiction Master
Overall, this is just a beautiful collection of short stories, and anyone who loves to read will get something out of Cawdron’s amazing work, do yourself a favour, and say “Hello” to the “World’ that is Peter Cawdron
September 16, 2022
Some hits and misses as with any anthology. Overall not great, I'll stick with Cawdron's full size novels.
Narration was kinda weak. Two characters randomly became Scottish half way through one of the stories...
Narration was kinda weak. Two characters randomly became Scottish half way through one of the stories...
April 2, 2019
A great collection of short stories from Peter Cawdron. I anticipated mostly space related sci-fi offerings, instead many different genres are covered.
Some of the stories are thought provoking, a few are scary, and others are just plain fun.
I don't think there was single story I didn't enjoy. A complete pleasure to read, as this author always has an interesting take on every subject he covers.
It's a fairly large collection, and each story includes a history/synopsis/afterword so the reader can be involved and understand inside information.
Highly recommended.
Unfortunately on Amazon, they seem to have confused the reviews of this new collection of short stories named Hello World (First Contact) that is 727 pages with the previous short story Hello World that was 72 pages. I'm sure they'll sort it out.
Some of the stories are thought provoking, a few are scary, and others are just plain fun.
I don't think there was single story I didn't enjoy. A complete pleasure to read, as this author always has an interesting take on every subject he covers.
It's a fairly large collection, and each story includes a history/synopsis/afterword so the reader can be involved and understand inside information.
Highly recommended.
Unfortunately on Amazon, they seem to have confused the reviews of this new collection of short stories named Hello World (First Contact) that is 727 pages with the previous short story Hello World that was 72 pages. I'm sure they'll sort it out.
October 12, 2020
Let me start off by saying I don’t usually read short story books but after reading some of the authors other books I felt compelled. The stories are all interesting in their own way yet they share the dynamic style that is Mr. Cawdron’s writing. All of these stories seem plausible-one of them called “Coffee” still gives me the chills. In each story-or adventure-the author tells gives us a little background about it providing the reader with interesting insight as to how/why the adventure evolved. His writing is very reminiscent of Carl Sagan in its intensity and passion. So put your feet up, grab your favorite lap pet and get ready to lose yourself for a little while! You won’t be disappointed 📚☕️😸
May 5, 2019
An excellent collection of short stories (mostly of novelette or novella length). Firmly based on science suitably extrapolated as “proper” SF stories should be. Thoroughly recommended.
December 2, 2025
This collection of short stories was hit or miss... until the last two. I enjoyed the deja vu story, but it was the last story that will stay with me for quite awhile.
October 13, 2021
So much fun! Thank you Peter, for this anthology. Well done.
April 5, 2021
Another great book by one of my favorite hard science, Science Fiction authors!
I am currently working my way through the sixteen books of Peter Cawdron’s First Contact series. Cawdron’s imagination and creativity never cease to amaze me as he envisions the many different ways humanity’s first contact with an alien race might occur.
Hello World is an anthology of fifteen short stories and novellas extending over a vast range of possible first contact scenarios. Nearly all of these stories have been published in other anthologies or magazines but they were all new to me.
There are several things that make this a great book. I’ve already mentioned his incredible range of ideas and scenarios. Additionally, Cawdron is an excellent writer - weaving suspense, imagination, great character development, and action into very engaging stories.
For me, the very best part of Cawdron’s writing is the science. I cannot imagine the number of journals and books he must read to keep up on current scientific discoveries. Each of his stories and books centers around some scientific theory or fact making him one of the best hard science, SciFi authors.
In Hello World, like all of his books, Cawdron includes information about how it the story came to be and/or the science behind it. The plots for these stories come from ideas as wide ranging as; aliens learning about us from twitter to using DNA as “flash drives”. Cawdron sometimes builds off of the ideas of other writers he admires and always gives glowing credit for what he “borrows”.
One of the most moving stories in this book is Natural, an alternate history story about vaccines. I am not sure when he wrote this story but with the world currently in the grips of the Covid 19 pandemic, it could not have been more timely. This story should be required reading for all “anti-vaxers” who clearly have forgotten what life was like before modern science and medicine.
As always, if you are new to Cawdron’s writing, I suggest you start with the first book in this series, Anomaly. While each book is a stand-alone, I find there is much to be said for following along as an author develops his/her ideas and writing techniques.
Sadly I have only have three more books to read in this series, although a new one is coming out May, 2021 and I already have it on pre-order.
I am currently working my way through the sixteen books of Peter Cawdron’s First Contact series. Cawdron’s imagination and creativity never cease to amaze me as he envisions the many different ways humanity’s first contact with an alien race might occur.
Hello World is an anthology of fifteen short stories and novellas extending over a vast range of possible first contact scenarios. Nearly all of these stories have been published in other anthologies or magazines but they were all new to me.
There are several things that make this a great book. I’ve already mentioned his incredible range of ideas and scenarios. Additionally, Cawdron is an excellent writer - weaving suspense, imagination, great character development, and action into very engaging stories.
For me, the very best part of Cawdron’s writing is the science. I cannot imagine the number of journals and books he must read to keep up on current scientific discoveries. Each of his stories and books centers around some scientific theory or fact making him one of the best hard science, SciFi authors.
In Hello World, like all of his books, Cawdron includes information about how it the story came to be and/or the science behind it. The plots for these stories come from ideas as wide ranging as; aliens learning about us from twitter to using DNA as “flash drives”. Cawdron sometimes builds off of the ideas of other writers he admires and always gives glowing credit for what he “borrows”.
One of the most moving stories in this book is Natural, an alternate history story about vaccines. I am not sure when he wrote this story but with the world currently in the grips of the Covid 19 pandemic, it could not have been more timely. This story should be required reading for all “anti-vaxers” who clearly have forgotten what life was like before modern science and medicine.
As always, if you are new to Cawdron’s writing, I suggest you start with the first book in this series, Anomaly. While each book is a stand-alone, I find there is much to be said for following along as an author develops his/her ideas and writing techniques.
Sadly I have only have three more books to read in this series, although a new one is coming out May, 2021 and I already have it on pre-order.
January 9, 2020
A variety bag of treats
Back when I was a kid, we’d go to the dairy, and buy a 10 cent mixture, selected at random by the shopkeeper, and handed to us in a white paper bag with a twist at the top. There was great excitement (1970’s Auckland wasn’t up to much else) when we opened the paper to see what was inside. The prize: a Snifter. The booby prize? A musk stick, swiftly swapped with my brother’s lot for something more tasty. And of course: all the jet airplanes, eskimoes, milk bottles, and tingles in between.
Reading Peter’s Hello World anthology was a lot like this. I could dip in and out of it, much like a lolly bag, although admittedly reading took me a much longer time than a sweet mix ever could because: I’m an adult now and have other stuff to do than provide work for a dentist in the future. I found it to be well researched, and with the mix of hard science and accessibility that I’ve come to expect from his books. There’s enough detail to make it credible (please!) but it’s still an entertaining read. The near and far future is a place only accessible to us in our heads, so this collection provides plenty of food for thought.
I’d definitely recommend this book to anyone who can read and dream at the same time, the detail in the pages is sufficient to play the movie in one’s mind of the action.
But: as with all collections, there were one’s that I just didn’t ‘get’ so: the awards are: The Snifter Prize for Favourite Story: Mirror, Mirror - aliens, future dystopia and making me think. The Musk Stick Prize for I Didn’t Get Past The First Few Pages: Lost Stars. The Fruit Tingle Honourable Mention - Butch and Sundance for the heart pounding action.
Back when I was a kid, we’d go to the dairy, and buy a 10 cent mixture, selected at random by the shopkeeper, and handed to us in a white paper bag with a twist at the top. There was great excitement (1970’s Auckland wasn’t up to much else) when we opened the paper to see what was inside. The prize: a Snifter. The booby prize? A musk stick, swiftly swapped with my brother’s lot for something more tasty. And of course: all the jet airplanes, eskimoes, milk bottles, and tingles in between.
Reading Peter’s Hello World anthology was a lot like this. I could dip in and out of it, much like a lolly bag, although admittedly reading took me a much longer time than a sweet mix ever could because: I’m an adult now and have other stuff to do than provide work for a dentist in the future. I found it to be well researched, and with the mix of hard science and accessibility that I’ve come to expect from his books. There’s enough detail to make it credible (please!) but it’s still an entertaining read. The near and far future is a place only accessible to us in our heads, so this collection provides plenty of food for thought.
I’d definitely recommend this book to anyone who can read and dream at the same time, the detail in the pages is sufficient to play the movie in one’s mind of the action.
But: as with all collections, there were one’s that I just didn’t ‘get’ so: the awards are: The Snifter Prize for Favourite Story: Mirror, Mirror - aliens, future dystopia and making me think. The Musk Stick Prize for I Didn’t Get Past The First Few Pages: Lost Stars. The Fruit Tingle Honourable Mention - Butch and Sundance for the heart pounding action.
October 7, 2022
I enjoyed this collection a great deal. The author specifically asked for a review and to know which of the stories are the reader's favorite. Despite liking so many of the stories so thoroughly, I will respect the author's wishes and select a favorite. It's "Don't Tell".
Now, please don't misunderstand me. This was a truly difficult decision. It was an absolute Toss Up between that, "The End", More to learn", and "Suffer the Children". With themes ranging from Recursive simulated holographic universes to humans not being the intellectually dominant species on earth and never being aware of it, to Tralfamadorians (by any other name), and everything in between. What seals "Don't Tell" for me are a few things. First, the antagonist (or should I say main antagonist) is a portrayal of a black person that isn't a complete caricature. I could imagine knowing someone like that in real life from growing up. Second, it talks about non-fantastic implications of the reality tweak (sort of the fundamental requirement for sci fi/. fantasy stories). I mean, we're talking about politics, law, TV. These are very much everyday things. This is a conversation, not an adventure-packed story about using supernatural abilities (that jab was for you PKD). Lastly, the twist was really and truly unexpected and powerful.
I'm committing now to read all of Cawdron's books. Please don't stop writing. You rank among the best to ever write for this genre and I would know, I've read a great deal of them. You're somewhere between Hugh Howey, Alastair Reynolds, and Blake Crouch but I could see you easily resting comfortably with Frank Herbert, Vernor Vinge and Isaac Asimov if you wanted to. For the love of god, write a space opera. Expect an e-mail from me saying the same.
Now, please don't misunderstand me. This was a truly difficult decision. It was an absolute Toss Up between that, "The End", More to learn", and "Suffer the Children". With themes ranging from Recursive simulated holographic universes to humans not being the intellectually dominant species on earth and never being aware of it, to Tralfamadorians (by any other name), and everything in between. What seals "Don't Tell" for me are a few things. First, the antagonist (or should I say main antagonist) is a portrayal of a black person that isn't a complete caricature. I could imagine knowing someone like that in real life from growing up. Second, it talks about non-fantastic implications of the reality tweak (sort of the fundamental requirement for sci fi/. fantasy stories). I mean, we're talking about politics, law, TV. These are very much everyday things. This is a conversation, not an adventure-packed story about using supernatural abilities (that jab was for you PKD). Lastly, the twist was really and truly unexpected and powerful.
I'm committing now to read all of Cawdron's books. Please don't stop writing. You rank among the best to ever write for this genre and I would know, I've read a great deal of them. You're somewhere between Hugh Howey, Alastair Reynolds, and Blake Crouch but I could see you easily resting comfortably with Frank Herbert, Vernor Vinge and Isaac Asimov if you wanted to. For the love of god, write a space opera. Expect an e-mail from me saying the same.
December 25, 2022
So, I started this without realizing it’s an anthology. Pagination is broken in the Kindle version and it shows as 55 pages (and stays at 55 of 55 the entire time after finishing the titular story). The mess that is Amazon book descriptions did not in any way suggest the great collection of stories ahead.
That said, what a gem this was! I was overjoyed by many of the stories! There is such a variety, and with both short and long format “short stories,” along with some mediums thrown in there. While the order seems random, I do wonder if Peter chose it by hand to encourage a certain flow.
My favorite story comes later in the collection: The Darkness Between the Stars was almost like poetry, and offered such a unique take, one I consider a lot more now.
I am grateful to have discovered Peter’s works and have become a big fan. I track AGI and sometimes reading up on new deliberations in that field feels uncannily reminiscent of some Hard Sci-Fi I read somewhere; this body of works had added new anchor points for what’s theoretically possible in our future, in my mind.
That said, what a gem this was! I was overjoyed by many of the stories! There is such a variety, and with both short and long format “short stories,” along with some mediums thrown in there. While the order seems random, I do wonder if Peter chose it by hand to encourage a certain flow.
My favorite story comes later in the collection: The Darkness Between the Stars was almost like poetry, and offered such a unique take, one I consider a lot more now.
I am grateful to have discovered Peter’s works and have become a big fan. I track AGI and sometimes reading up on new deliberations in that field feels uncannily reminiscent of some Hard Sci-Fi I read somewhere; this body of works had added new anchor points for what’s theoretically possible in our future, in my mind.
November 13, 2023
Hello World
Sci-Fi
Peter Cawdron
⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was an interesting but short read.
I loved the premise. When people talk about aliens and how they would make contact, it's never even considered that it could be done through our own technology and in this case, social media.
The pacing was fast and Liz was very brave for standing up to the shooter the way that she did. She saved numerous lives by risking her own.
I wish there was more world building and development. I wanted to know more about the aliens, about where they came from, how long they had been watching and researching humans and what else was out there in space.
Sci-Fi
Peter Cawdron
⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was an interesting but short read.
I loved the premise. When people talk about aliens and how they would make contact, it's never even considered that it could be done through our own technology and in this case, social media.
The pacing was fast and Liz was very brave for standing up to the shooter the way that she did. She saved numerous lives by risking her own.
I wish there was more world building and development. I wanted to know more about the aliens, about where they came from, how long they had been watching and researching humans and what else was out there in space.
September 25, 2022
Hello World is both the title of this collection of shorter tales by Peter Cawdron, and the title of the first story in the collection.
Hello World - 3/5
The Man Who Remembered Today - 5/5
Mirror, Mirror - 4/5
Science - 3/5
Killer - 3/5
Revolution - 2/5
Lost Stars - 2/5
Natural - 4/5
Heil Hitler - 3/5
The End - 3/5
Don't Tell - 5/5
Super Villan (sic) - 3/5
Abraham - 3/5
Arrival - 4/5
Suffer The Children - 3/3
The Darkness Between the Stars - 3/3
Weather Balloon - 3/3
Life on Mars - 3/5
Cold Equations - 3/5
Hello World - 3/5
The Man Who Remembered Today - 5/5
Mirror, Mirror - 4/5
Science - 3/5
Killer - 3/5
Revolution - 2/5
Lost Stars - 2/5
Natural - 4/5
Heil Hitler - 3/5
The End - 3/5
Don't Tell - 5/5
Super Villan (sic) - 3/5
Abraham - 3/5
Arrival - 4/5
Suffer The Children - 3/3
The Darkness Between the Stars - 3/3
Weather Balloon - 3/3
Life on Mars - 3/5
Cold Equations - 3/5
July 30, 2022
interesting
A pretty good collection of SF short stories with the theme of ‘first contact’ and one or two ring ins. Some good ideas with the usual SF focus on curiosity and adventure. Mostly lighthearted and optimistic - lacking the harsh dissonances that have become more common. Lots of good science thrown into the mix as well. Primarily astronomy and biology which certainly fits the theme.
A pretty good collection of SF short stories with the theme of ‘first contact’ and one or two ring ins. Some good ideas with the usual SF focus on curiosity and adventure. Mostly lighthearted and optimistic - lacking the harsh dissonances that have become more common. Lots of good science thrown into the mix as well. Primarily astronomy and biology which certainly fits the theme.
May 20, 2020
Like myself, Peter Cawdron is a huge fan of Philip K Dick, particularly his short stories. And like Philip K Dick, most of the short stories in this collection were excellent. Most. I found the steampunk story dull but, then again, I am not into steampunk. A couple of others were just okay. The rest ruled. The more I read Peter Cawdron, the more I love him.
Ray Smillie
Ray Smillie
July 12, 2020
Thought provoking short stories
This collection presents some interesting ideas about life beyond our planet or solar system. All of the stories were well written and thought provoking.
This collection presents some interesting ideas about life beyond our planet or solar system. All of the stories were well written and thought provoking.
April 2, 2021
Recommended.
Having read the short version of this book, I got this longer version to see what had been added - I was not disappointed.
Each story gives pause for thought about the human species, and how we might cope with our future(s).
Having read the short version of this book, I got this longer version to see what had been added - I was not disappointed.
Each story gives pause for thought about the human species, and how we might cope with our future(s).
February 4, 2022
Superb
Thoroughly researched and science based speculative fiction! I love it. The characters are so real and relatable and the stories so good you feel as if you’re right there with them.
Thoroughly researched and science based speculative fiction! I love it. The characters are so real and relatable and the stories so good you feel as if you’re right there with them.
May 15, 2022
Interesting, thought-povoking scenarios well worth a read
Enjoyed reading a variety of possible outcomes that avoids the Hollywood tropes, and examines human responses rather than focusing on scary, alien morphology that we've seen over and over again in blockbusters.
Enjoyed reading a variety of possible outcomes that avoids the Hollywood tropes, and examines human responses rather than focusing on scary, alien morphology that we've seen over and over again in blockbusters.
January 8, 2023
The proverbial melting pot, a Bertie Bassett allsorts of short stories, with just about everything thrown in, something that will suite some, but not all, I’m sure, just like the sweets, what fun you’ll have trying them all out. Groaning with pleasure at some or spitting some out with displeasure.
August 29, 2023
Splendid Ideas, Well-Delivered
Thus anthology is reminiscent of old-time science-fiction. Several stories could form the basis for good novels. Many leave the reader hanging, as is often the intent. Very enjoyable.
Thus anthology is reminiscent of old-time science-fiction. Several stories could form the basis for good novels. Many leave the reader hanging, as is often the intent. Very enjoyable.
June 15, 2025
An interesting collection
I enjoy Peter's range of topics, and he makes some very thought provoking points. A combination of science and aspects of human nature are put across in an interesting manner.
I enjoy Peter's range of topics, and he makes some very thought provoking points. A combination of science and aspects of human nature are put across in an interesting manner.
September 23, 2019
Another winning collection of short stories
Cameron is amazingly talented. I can honestly say there is no favorite for me in this collection. Every one of these stories is great.
Cameron is amazingly talented. I can honestly say there is no favorite for me in this collection. Every one of these stories is great.
December 7, 2019
Great range of stories
I really enjoyed this collection of stories - pleas keep writing more. I appreciate the humanity captured in each writing.
I really enjoyed this collection of stories - pleas keep writing more. I appreciate the humanity captured in each writing.
December 20, 2020
Wow!! My type of book. Excellent..
January 31, 2021
3.50
Like any anthology there are some stories I thought were eh and then some I absolutely loved.
𝘋𝘦𝘫𝘢 𝘝𝘶 & 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘉𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴 are by far my favorites!
Like any anthology there are some stories I thought were eh and then some I absolutely loved.
𝘋𝘦𝘫𝘢 𝘝𝘶 & 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘉𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴 are by far my favorites!
February 14, 2021
Truly enjoyable
What a joy to read stories that do not involve fighting! Will be looking for more from this author 😊
What a joy to read stories that do not involve fighting! Will be looking for more from this author 😊
June 16, 2021
A great collection of interesting stories. I truly appreciate how Peter Cawdron is able to so deftly involved the reader in the myriad of imaginary worlds he has created.
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