Pele
Poul Anderson
Story belonging to the Man-Kzinti wars series. Both kzinti and human research vessel are studying an uncommon stellar phenomenon. A lot of talk, fairly pointless romance, too little of action. By far too long as a novella. Why so many writes become over verbose on their later age? **½

Company Man
Daniel Hatch
A mining group in space has some trouble with corporate finances, when the mining company seems to face liquidation. Short story without much interest, very standard “analog” story. ***

Oven, Witch and Wardrobe
Tom Sweeney
Tempting children with sweets may be a bit suspect activity, even on middle ages. Not too surprising twist, but amusing little piece. ***

Going, Going, Cone
Stephen L. Burns
Visiting at auctions may be interesting and sometimes profitable. Especially of auctioned things come from eccentric inventor’s inventory. Good, interesting story, well told. ****-

Lost Moments
David Phalen
Immortal man who meets first his father (with not too good results), later gets a son, with whom his relationship lasts for about two millennia. Very good,, interesting and moving story, might have even been a bit longer. ****+

Standing Firm on the Pipette Line
Rajnar Vajra
Rats have taken over the world - or almost. Intelligent “super-rats” who are able to control ordinary have made themselves known, after living in secret for the humankind’s whole existence. A major of Boston is tested by those creatures. Premise is more that a bit hard to believe, story itself is okay, nothing special, but not too bad. ***+ ( )