Dr. Alien

A human psychiatrist examines extraterrestrial patients in this science fiction story collection.

“One of the best science fiction writers of our time.” —Hugo and Nebula award-winner Robert J. Sawyer

Introduction by Stanley Schmidt, Hugo Award–winning author and editor

Not terribly far in the future, a highly sophisticated alien species, the Tsf, have set up trading posts on Earth. Naturally, humans want to please them in hopes that the Tsf will share their ultra-advanced technology. And an opportunity arises to do just that. The Tsf have rescued three aliens of different, unfamiliar species on three damaged spaceships. But something psychological appears to be seriously wrong with all three.

When their specialists fail to help these space-shipwrecked beings, the Tsf turn to humans for help. Dr. Alanso J. Morganson, well-respected psychiatrist, is drafted to propose a treatment plan. He knows the task is impossible but humanity is counting on him. To avoid drowning, “Dr. Alien” had best grab a buoy or grow tall enough to find solid land under his feet.

Each Dr. Alien tale in this collection builds on the last, culminating with a unique vista on a truly cosmic scale, as well as possibilities for astonishing developments to come.