The narrative follows Smith, an awkward and out-of-place creature from Earth, as he navigates the complexities of an interstellar school where he is the first representative from his planet. Upon arrival, he faces ridicule and confusion from other students and the registrar, who struggle to understand Earth and its customs. Smith's lack of knowledge about the school's curriculum and his unfamiliarity with the advanced cultures around him lead to a series of humiliating encounters. As he interacts with various students, including Jorak from Gyra and Geria from Bortinot, Smith grapples with his identity and the perception of Earth as a primitive world. He learns about the school's focus on psi-powers, dream empathy, and physical combat, which starkly contrasts with his own experiences on Earth. Despite his initial discomfort, Smith begins to form connections, particularly with Geria, who shows interest in him and his unique background. Throughout his time at the school, Smith faces challenges that test his understanding of strength, culture, and personal identity. He becomes embroiled in conflicts, particularly with Jorak, who embodies the elitism of the school's culture. Smith's struggles culminate in a series of physical confrontations, where he inadvertently showcases his latent psi-powers, leading to further complications and accusations of barbarism. As Smith navigates the social dynamics of the school, he reflects on the values of Earth and the implications of its isolation from the broader galaxy. He confronts the notion of cultural superiority and the consequences of forgetting one's roots. Ultimately, Smith's journey is one of self-discovery, as he learns to assert his identity and the significance of his heritage in a galaxy that has largely moved on from the values he holds dear. The climax of the story occurs when Smith must decide whether to remain at the school or return to Earth. He grapples with the weight of his responsibilities as Earth's representative and the lessons he has learned about the galaxy's cultures. In the end, he chooses to return to Earth with Geria, recognizing the importance of his home planet and the need to bridge the gap between Earth and the advanced civilizations he has encountered. The narrative concludes with Smith's determination to bring the knowledge he has gained back to Earth, aiming to foster understanding and growth for both his planet and the galaxy at large.
By Stephen Marlowe · First published 1970 · Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure