Sci-fi and Heroic Fantasy discussion

This is our discussion of the story:


"Amicae Aeternum" by Ellen Klages

This story originally appeared in Reach for Infinity.
It can be read for free on-line @Tor.com

This story is part of the The Best SF&F of the Year, vol 9 (2014) group anthology discussion.

★★★
a charming story of a girl who will embark a generation space ship with her parents on the next day. She gathered a list of last things to do, most importantly remembering her friend for the generations to come.

The shortness of this tale suffices to make it poignant and sentimental rather than wallowing in treacle. A young girl (again with the young girls!) spends her last morning on Earth with her best friend (amicae optimae aeternum = BFF) for one final sample of the little pleasures of living on Earth before boarding a generation ship. I like the cataloging of everyday events, from watching a sunrise to smelling wildflowers to smelling the lighter fluid on a barbecue grill.

At first we don't actually know why Corry is saying goodbye, which works well to add interest to the character and her situation.

★★★1/2★