The Slizzers

Jerome Bixby's "The Slizzers" presents a chilling science fiction premise that challenges everything you thought you knew about the people around you. What if the beings living among us weren't quite human—and you'd never suspect a thing? The slizzers are everywhere, seamlessly integrated into our society, capable of perfectly mimicking human appearance and behavior. They've existed on Earth far longer than anyone realizes, quietly coexisting with humanity in a relationship far more insidious than any alien invasion narrative. Unlike the rampaging monsters of pulp fiction, these creatures have no need to harm us. Instead, they depend on humanity much as we depend on natural resources—careful, measured, and deliberately sustainable. We're tended to rather than threatened, cultivated rather than destroyed. Bixby masterfully explores the unsettling implications of this hidden reality. Every strange comment, every odd behavioral quirk, every moment of inexplicable kindness from a friend or stranger takes on new meaning. The story forces readers to confront uncomfortable questions about identity, trust, and what it truly means to be human. This gripping science fiction tale is perfect for readers who enjoy thoughtful speculative fiction that lingers long after the final word. Bixby's exploration of alien infiltration feels disturbingly plausible, making it ideal for anyone fascinated by stories where the real horror lies in the ordinary and familiar.