A collection of science fiction and fantasy short stories, including works by authors like Naomi Kritzer and Chen Qiufan, exploring themes of identity, friendship, and the consequences of scientific discovery. Controversy surrounds one story, "Helicopter Story," which delves into gender issues and military science fiction, leading to its withdrawal from publication.

Reader Review Summary

Clarkesworld Magazine's January 2020 issue (#160) is a shining example of the caliber of fiction and thought-provoking content this Hugo and World Fantasy Award-winning publication consistently delivers. This issue showcases an impressive range of original speculative fiction stories that will captivate readers across various sub-genres.

One standout piece is Naomi Kritzer's novelette "Monster," a finalist for the 2021 Hugo Award. Kritzer weaves an intricate tale that explores friendship, morality, and the consequences of playing God through a science fiction lens. Her masterful storytelling immerses readers from the opening line, flawlessly alternating between past and present timelines. Kritzer's poignant examination of what truly constitutes a "monster" resonates profoundly, making this a well-deserving award contender.

Filip Hajdar Drnovšek Zorko's "The AI That Looked at the Sun" is another gem that transcends genre boundaries. This heartwarming story about an AI's yearning for purpose and its desperate need to witness the sun's magnificence is beautifully rendered. Zorko's ability to craft an emotionally compelling tale from the perspective of an artificial consciousness is a testament to their skill as a writer.

While some stories garnered controversy, such as Isabel Fall's "I Sexually Identify as an Attack Helicopter," many readers found profound value in the narrative's bold exploration of gender, identity, and militarization. Fall's daring reclamation of a transphobic meme and transformation into a sharp critique of societal norms is a powerful example of an author using speculative fiction to challenge assumptions and spark important conversations.

Throughout this issue, Clarkesworld Magazine showcases speculative fiction's ability to enlighten, challenge, and inspire readers. The stories contained within these pages are not only exceptionally well-written but also thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. From tales of artificial intelligences finding purpose to intimate character studies grappling with morality, this issue encapsulates the breadth and depth of the genre. Clarkesworld Magazine's January 2020 offering is a must-read for any fan of insightful, meaningful speculative fiction.