The story revolves around a post-apocalyptic world where children have become violent and aggressive towards adults. The old man, Sal Lemmon, is part of a group of survivors who are trying to escape on a barge. However, they are ambushed by the Children, and the barge is destroyed. Sal and Doctor Cartley decide to try and establish a connection with the Children, but it seems like an impossible task due to their hatred and brutality. Cartley believes that the Children's behavior is a result of fear and that they need guidance and knowledge to survive. The two men escape in a rowboat and head upstream to watch and wait for an opportunity to make contact with the Children. They come across a young girl who calls out to Doctor Cartley, thinking he is her grandfather. He picks her up and comforts her, and Sal rows them upstream. This encounter seems to be a turning point in the story, as it suggests that there may be a way to bridge the gap between the old and the new generation. The girl's recognition of her grandfather implies that there is still a connection between the two groups, and that perhaps they can learn from each other. The story raises questions about the nature of humanity and how we treat each other. It highlights the importance of relationships and connections in building bridges between different generations and cultures.
By Bryce Walton · First published 1987 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy