A review by abbie_
Mars by Asja Bakić

adventurous challenging dark reflective fast-paced

4.0

This short story collection translated from Croatian contains some of the most fascinating sci-fi concepts I’ve read in ages. I’m so grateful to publishers like Feminist Press who take chances on authors in translation from regions we rarely see in western publishing. Bakić explores ideas of what we leave behind when we die, the ethics of harnessing AI, robot autonomy, queer love, immigration. There’s a lot going on in these stories, some weaker than others, but always compelling and also just nice to read in terms of style. It’s also not all sci-fi - one of my faves was two murderous women engaging in some sort of stand-off. Asja 5.0 and Abby were my other favourites, both of which explore scenarios that could arise if humans do turn to AI/technology to fulfil emotional needs usually met by other humans. I will definitely try to squeeze in SweetLust this year, as I’m excited to read more from this author!