The Slizzers by Jerome Bixby (1953)
This science fiction novel explores the concept of a group of people who are genetically engineered to be superior beings, but are instead ostracized and persecuted by society due to their differences. The story follows the Slizzers, a family of these genetically engineered individuals, as they struggle to survive in a world that fears and rejects them. The novel delves into themes of prejudice, acceptance, and what it means to be human. Through the Slizzers' experiences, the novel highlights the dangers of xenophobia and the importance of understanding and embracing diversity.
By Jerome Bixby · First published 1953 · Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror · 3,584 words
First lines
_The main trouble is that you'd never suspect anything was wrong; you'd enjoy associating with _slizzers_, so long as you didn't know._
They're all around us. I'll call them the _slizzers_, because they _sliz_ people. Lord only knows how long they've been on Earth, and how many of them there are.
What this Textopian page supports
The Slizzers is listed on Textopian as a novel by Jerome Bixby, dated 1953 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Jerome Bixby
- Date: 1953 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, Psychological Thriller, Satire
- Length: 3,584 words
- Structure: 1 section, 125 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Slizzers by Jerome Bixby
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Slizzers?
- How does this novel by Jerome Bixby fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Nobody Saw The Ship by Murray Leinster
- Morgue Ship by Ray Bradbury
- The Dark Other by Stanley G. Weinbaum
- White Spot by Murray Leinster
- Defense Mech by Ray Bradbury
- Tubemonkey by Jerome Bixby
Genres
- Science Fiction — The narrative explores themes of identity, alien existence, and the nature of humanity, typical of science fiction.
- Fantasy — The concept of 'slizzers' as beings that can disguise themselves and manipulate human emotions introduces fantastical elements.
- Horror — The unsettling nature of the slizzers and their predatory behavior evokes a sense of dread and fear.
- Psychological Thriller — The story delves into the psychological manipulation of characters, creating tension and suspense.
Tags
Science Fiction · Short Story Collection · Alien Invasion · Space Exploration · Humanity's Fate · Existential Crisis · Psychological Thriller · Speculative Fiction · Anthology · Classic Science Fiction · 1950s Literature · American Science Fiction