Subject
Pregnancy -- Fiction Books
Best books
Randall Garrett
Spatial Delivery
"Spatial Delivery" by Randall Garrett is a science fiction short story published in the mid-20th century. The narrative unfolds aboard Space Station One, where Lieutenant Alice Britton faces an unexpected premature labor while stationed in space, highlighting the unique challenges and circumstances of childbirth beyond Earth. The story delves into themes of medical responsibility in space and the courage required in unprecedented situations. As the plot progresses, Alice Britton endures contractions and pain while Major Peter Banes, the station's medical officer, grapples with the lack of essential medical equipment like an incubator for a premature baby. Tension builds as Banes communicates with White Sands Rocket Base, coordinating an emergency rocket trip to bring supplies and a medical expert. Despite initial fears and complications, Alice's quick thinking reveals that the space station itself offers a protective environment akin to an incubator. In the end, her son, James Edward Britton II, is delivered successfully, showcasing a blend of human resilience and innovative problem-solving amid the vastness of space.
Winston K. (Winston Kinney) Marks
Unbegotten Child
"Unbegotten Child" by Winston K. Marks is a science fiction novella written during the early 1950s. The story centers around a medical anomaly involving a woman named Sara Caffey, who claims she is not pregnant despite medical evidence to the contrary. This intriguing premise explores themes of reproduction and evolution, questioning the fundamental nature of childbirth and the progress of humanity. The plot follows Dr. Foley, a physician, as he navigates the perplexing case of Sara, who arrives at the hospital convinced of suffering from a tumor. Despite her staunch denials, multiple examinations reveal that she is indeed pregnant, sparking curiosity and disbelief. The renowned surgeon, Dr. Phillipe Sansome, proposes a radical theory suggesting that due to evolutionary changes, humans may be developing a means of asexual reproduction. As Sara's condition evolves, she ultimately gives birth to a seemingly healthy daughter, but the unexpected twist reveals the child is born without a navel, raising further questions about nature, medical science, and the intricacies of life itself. Through clever dialogue and innovative concepts, Marks crafts a thought-provoking narrative that challenges perceptions of motherhood and the biological processes involved.
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