Presents a collection of science fiction short stories, combining the author's views on politics, social issues, and the dire consequences of abusing the environment.<br/><br/>Contents:<br/>Pocketful of dharma --<br/>The fluted girl --<br/>The people of sand and slag --<br/>The Pasho --<br/>The calorie man --<br/>The Tamarisk hunter --<br/>Pop Squad --<br/>Yellow card man --<br/>Softer --<br/>Pump Six.