“Uncanny valley” refers to the phenomenon that occurs when a robot looks and moves almost, but not exactly, like a natural being, thus evoking a response of revulsion among some observers. In the same way, this collection of short stories aims to provoke a response in readers through its reflection of society. The collection focuses on the unusual facets that make up Singapore. In Adrift, the protagonist struggles with Singapore’s stance on refugees. The Apex ponders social stratification arising from the rapid development in Singapore. The Mentor examines the struggle of a mentor in witnessing his pupil surpassing him. Using a wide range of characters, from the construction worker to the managing director, the stories explore identity and various aspects of the human psyche. Uncanny Valley will gnaw the corners of your mind and challenge your ideas on society and what it means to be human.

S. Mickey Lin is a former Annenberg Fellow and graduate of the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts. He is also a participant of NAC’s Mentor Access Project, the most established mentorship programme in Singapore. His writings have been published in Hong Kong, Singapore, and the US. For additional information, please check outwww.mickeylin.com or follow him at @mickeylin on Twitter.