Katherine MacLean was a trailblazer in the world of science fiction. With her exceptional writing skills and unique perspective on the impact of technological advances on society, she quickly became recognized as a standout in a predominantly male-dominated field. Her work, which combined technical brilliance with human warmth and richness, earned her high praise from fellow science fiction writers such as Damon Knight.
Contagion by Katherine MacLean
One of MacLean’s most notable works, Contagion, can be found in the second volume of Incredible Science Fiction: Amazing Tales from the ’50s and Beyond. This thought-provoking story delves into the themes of male-female relationships in a science-fiction setting, making it both relevant and timeless. The title of the story, which was written in the 1950s, coincidentally aligns with the current global pandemic, making it all the more impactful.
For those who are interested in immersing themselves in MacLean’s world, a five-minute sample of the narration of Contagion can be found below. Get ready to be transported to a place where technology and human relationships collide, and where the lines between science and humanity are blurred.
The full, unabridged Audible version of this story is 58 minutes and 43 seconds long and is the 3rd story in Incredible Science Fiction Amazing Tales from the ’50s and Beyond Volume Two: