The Hillside

In "The Hillside," a poignant fable by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jane Smiley, humanity faces extinction after bringing Earth to devastation. The Congress of Animals, now in charge, debates the fate of humans, largely favoring extermination. Amidst this unforgiving landscape, a young mare advocates for a seemingly gentle human she wishes to save, challenging the established order and sparking a desire for mercy that could disrupt the new world. This tale is part of "Warmer," a collection of seven thought-provoking narratives exploring potential futures.