The Turning Place Stories of a Future Past

Fearful of mankind's growing space exploration, an alien race known as the Chlordians wipes out nearly all of the planet's carbon-based life forms. Life on Earth is forever changed after the "Chlordian sweep," not only on account of the struggle for physical survival but also because of a shift in attitudes. Survivors experience a form of enlightenment that leads them away from competitive, destructive impulses and toward unity with all life. Ultimately, the catastrophic attack ushers in a new era of cooperation and peaceful coexistence.
Written from the perspective of a far-distant civilization, these nine "Stories of a Future Past" offer optimistic, thought-provoking perspectives on the possibilities for our planet's evolution. Even readers who are not already science fiction fans will be intrigued by these imaginative tales. Chosen as a Junior Literary Guild selection, The Turning Place is an outstanding book for young adults.

Jean E. Karl (1927–2000) was the founder and head editor of the Atheneum and Aladdin publishing imprints. She edited many Newbery- and Caldecott-winning books, wrote several fiction and nonfiction titles, and was President of the Children's Book Council.

The Turning PlaceOver the HillEnoughAccordCatabilid ConquestQuiet and a White BushThe TalkaroundA Central QuestionOut for the Flicker PathSome Notes on Sources