Review of Tasting Light: Ten Science Fiction Stories to Rewire You
As someone who finds it difficult to dive back into reading after a break, Tasting Light: Ten Science Fiction Stories to Rewire You truly intrigued me. Edited by the brilliant Ellen Datlow, this anthology promises not just escapism but a rethinking of the familiar. The title alone had me reflecting on the light we take for granted—the light of understanding, of identity, and the very fabric of what it means to be human in a world filled with uncertainty. With themes that resonate deeply, let’s explore what this collection offers.
Right off the bat, the diversity of stories caught my attention. Each narrative unfolds a unique thread woven into the vast tapestry of human experience, dealing with complex themes such as identity, grief, and connection. For instance, Charlotte Nicole Davis’s Cadence tackled grief and gender identity with a tender hand. I found myself yearning for even more depth—it left me wanting more from the characters, but it beautifully encapsulated the struggle of self-discovery.
William Alexander’s On the Tip of My Tongue, on the other hand, completely captivated me. In delightful second-person narration, I felt enveloped in the story, sharing the ambiguity of the characters’ identities. The clever title is as integral to the plot as the narrative itself, an exhilarating experience that left me with a smile—much like the coffee drawn into a black hole, I was irresistibly sucked in.
Then there was Melanitis by Junauda Petrus-Nasah, an evocative story that forced me to confront my own positionality as a reader. The concept of a disease that could change one’s skin color raised profound questions about race and privilege. While at times it felt a bit preachy, the premise was so gripping that it merits a longer form exploration.
A.R. Capetta’s Extremophiles was a delightful fusion of science and creativity. The letters shared between characters offered a cozy narrative device that felt familiar and comforting. Here, combining space and oceanic exploration, Capetta delivered a flow that made even the more technical scientific terminology accessible—reminding me of my endless curiosity about the universe.
The pace of the anthology varies, which can be a mixed blessing. Some stories felt like fleeting glimpses into fascinating worlds, such as The Memory of Soil by Wendy Xu, which left me wanting more character development. Others were compelling, like K. Ancrum’s Walk 153, which beautifully illustrated connection against the backdrop of modern loneliness.
If I had to choose—Walk 153 was perhaps my favorite. The unlikely friendship formed between a walker and his homebound client resonated deeply. It reminded me that empathy and connection can bloom in the most unexpected places.
As this anthology oscillates between hard-hitting socio-political commentary and soft explorations of emotional landscapes, it speaks to a variety of readers. Sci-fi enthusiasts and those curious about the intricacies of identity will find standout gems here.
In conclusion, Tasting Light isn’t just about the stories themselves; it’s about how they make us reconsider what we know—or think we know—about ourselves. This collection nudged me back into the reading fold, reinstilling a sense of wonder for the written word. If you’re looking for narratives that challenge your perceptions and prompt reflection, this anthology is well worth your time.
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