Beyond Lies the Wub, by Philip K Dick, 1952

Beyond Lies the Wub, by Philip K Dick, 1952

Beyond Lies the Wub is about an alien that gets aboard a human starship while resupplying at Mars.

The alien called a Wub, resembles a 400 pound pig and is clearly intelligent with unique abilities such as telepathy and mind control.

As the crew of the human starship grow a sort of report with the intelligent pig-like alien, the captain becomes intent in cooking it as there is a shortage of food despite the resupply at Mars.

Although, in the end the alien is cooked, the story's plot twist allows the Wub to continue beyond.

Running through the story are themes of immortality and intolerance. The author, Dick, presents humanity as intractable while the slovenly pig-like alien exhibits a deeper humanity.

Notwithstanding the short length, the story is packed with detail and information. Enjoyable all around.

My rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5 stars)

Link to the free eBook