An Escape Pod original, text and audio free online
Randy has the ability to teleport anywhere in the universe, but she doesn't get much use of it because of her uber-vigilant mother, and not having enough free time with school and teen drama. But her best friend Jenny needs her help, and Randy gives it willingly. The mini-adventure forms a small fraction of the story, most of it being emotional aftermath of Randy's being manipulated, and some big revelations about Jenny's home life. A story about the power of friendship, and the relative uselessness of superpowers.
What I like most is that the whole story is aftermath of some big coming-of-age adventure Randy had, that she mostly laughs off, but gives us enough background for an interesting backstory. I'm aware that Pratt actually wrote a book about this material, but he gave us enough of it here that I almost like it better as story background than actual fiction. But I haven't read it. More importantly, I don't need to in order to enjoy the story.
I also really like Jenny's actual problem. It is much more significant than things first appear, and something I like seeing addressed in what amounts to Young Adult fiction. The story was exciting, but still emotional and thoughtful. Randy is a very good friend but still very much a teenage girl. This is a fun story.
4 teleporting teenagers out of 5.
No comments:
Post a Comment