The stories in Even the Queen

Even the Queen

Virtually every new technology spawns a couple of Luddites that insist it's a bad thing. In this case, an entire cult is involved. (Previously appeared in Asimov's Science Fiction Magazine and collected in Willis' anthology Impossible Things. 1992 Nebula Award, 1993 Hugo Award, Best Short Story.)

At the Rialto

This story defines Willis' style better than any other. A look at a scientific conference held in Chaos Central, and an attempt to explain the link between quantum physics, mid-life romance and the Frederick's of Hollywood bra museum. (Previously appeared in Omni and collected in Willis' anthology Impossible Things. 1989 Nebula Award, Best Short Story.)

Death on the Nile

Billed on the packaging as "one of her eeriest short stories," this is the only tale in the batch that attempts to be as serious as it is funny. The story of a vacation to Egypt gone seriously wrong. (Previously appeared in Asimov's Science Fiction Magazine. 1994 Hugo Award, Best Short Story.)

Why the World Didn't End Last Tuesday

Armageddon by committee. This one's less of a mystery than the others, and more a very goofy extended joke. (Previously appeared in Asimov's Science Fiction Magazine.)

Close Encounter

Yes, everyone hates hospitals. They're just hating them for the wrong reasons. (Previously appeared in Asimov's Science Fiction Magazine.)

ack to Other Cool Sci-Fi Stuff.