Dr. Kometevsky's Day

"Dr. Kometensky's Day" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction tale from a time when the solar system is facing destruction from space events, the story blends fear of the unknown with what's real, and also looks at the complicated relationships of a family with multiple partners. The book imagines what could happen when space changes, using science and human feelings. The story focuses on Celeste Wolver, her husband Theodor, and their large family as they deal with Mars' missing moons and a possible disaster in space. As they investigate events tied to the forecasts of the mysterious Dr. Kometevsky, they face their own worries and the weakness of their family connections. Feelings of affection, faithfulness, and the search for safety in a time of destruction fill the story, highlighted by the scary dreams of their child, Dotty, who seems related to the space events. As stress increases and their existence faces challenges, the characters must deal with the changes in their world and the meaning of their relationships with themselves, each other, and the stars.