In a small town, a mysterious piper appears and offers to rid the town of rats that have infested it. The townspeople are initially hesitant but eventually agree to pay the piper for his services. The piper's method of ridding the town of rats involves leading them out into the countryside where they drown in a river. However, when the townspeople realize what is happening, they try to stop the piper and reclaim their money. The story explores themes of greed, morality, and the consequences of one's actions.
By Ray Bradbury · First published 1959 · Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Dystopian