"Hey Ma, Where's Willie?"
"Hey Ma, Where's Willie?" by I. M. Bukstein is a short story that blends elements of humor and science fiction, likely written in the early 1950s. The narrative presents a rural family's experience following the mysterious disappearance of one of their sons, Willie, who is depicted as an oddball amidst his more conventional siblings. The story explores themes of familial relationships, societal perceptions of intelligence and normalcy, and the all-too-human tendency to overlook those who may not fit neatly into societal norms. The plot unfolds from the perspective of Willie's father as he reflects on Willie's peculiarities and contrasts him with his other children. Willie, who often asked outlandish questions and struggled with traditional farming tasks, goes missing around the time of an unusual phenomenon involving strange lights in the sky. As the family searches for him, the father's initial indifference turns into a feeling of curiosity about Willie's fate. The story culminates in an unexpected reunion, revealing that Willie has returned with unusual companions, hinting at an extraterrestrial element. This twist adds a humorous touch to the father's worries and highlights the absurdity of their situation while also suggesting that even the least favored family member can have remarkable adventures.