Returning to print after nearly 50 years, Survivor completes Octavia E. Butler's thrilling Patternist series, including a short story from the Patternist saga and new historical essays from a major Butler scholar. This deluxe edition includes: An incredible new cover and package Premium French flaps and newly designed, full color interior covers High-quality paper with elegant deckled-edges The Patternist books ( Wild Seed, Mind of My Mind, Clay's Ark, and Patternmaster ) comprise Butler's longest, most complex series, stretching from late 17th century Africa to outer space in the far future, as rival factions of humanity develop incredible powers--only to use them to subjugate others. For nearly half a century, the fourth volume, Survivor , has been out of print at Octavia E. Butler's request. It tells the story of Alanna, a colonist fleeing a plague-scarred Earth. But the planet she lands on is inhabited by the alien Kohn, whose battling tribes soon trap Alanna in their war. She must make alliances--while plotting betrayals.

She must protect her heart--while putting it at risk. And she must decide if the best way to retain her humanity . is to leave it behind. Now returning to print, Survivor is put into its proper historical context thanks to contributions from scholar and Octavia E. Butler Fellow Alyssa Collins. This long-awaited volume also contains "A Necessary Being," the only short fiction set in the Patternist universe, to finally, fully bring together and complete the Patternist series for readers everywhere.