The Saliva Tree And Other Strange Growths

Set in late 19th-century England, this story follows a young man fascinated by a meteor shower and its mysterious fragments, which spark his curiosity about strange phenomena occurring near the Benford farm. As strange animal births, unusual smells, and unexplained deaths emerge, he persists in his investigations despite increasing dangers. The novella, written by Brian W. Aldiss as a tribute to H. G. Wells and awarded the Nebula, is part of a collection featuring a variety of compelling short fiction.