The Mount

The Mount presents an inverted science fiction scenario where aliens called Hoots have domesticated humans as riding mounts on Earth. The story centers on Charley, a young human mount who has known no life other than serving his alien master. The Hoots are former prey animals who evolved high intelligence and acute senses, but have weak legs that require them to ride other creatures. They maintain control over Earth and its human population through a complex system of stables, breeding programs, and training methods. A resistance movement of escaped humans, including Charley's father, fights against Hoot dominance. Charley must navigate between loyalty to his master and his growing awareness of human freedom. The novel explores themes of power dynamics, Stockholm syndrome, and the complex psychological bonds between captors and captives. Through its role-reversed premise, it raises questions about human nature and the foundations of civilization.

Readers appreciate the unique perspective of humans as "mounts" being ridden by alien masters, finding the role reversal thought-provoking. Many note how the story examines power dynamics, Stockholm Syndrome, and human-pet relationships without becoming heavy-handed. Readers highlight the strong character development of Charley and his evolving relationship with his master. Several reviews praise Emshwiller's ability to make alien psychology believable while maintaining narrative tension. Common criticisms include a slow middle section and an ending that some found unsatisfying. Some readers struggled with the premise, finding it difficult to accept the physical logistics of small aliens riding humans. Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (968 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (31 ratings) LibraryThing: 3.7/5 (89 ratings) "A disturbing but compelling look at dominance and submission" - Goodreads reviewer "The world-building feels incomplete" - Amazon reviewer "Makes you question your relationship with your pets" - LibraryThing reviewer

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🔹 Carol Emshwiller wrote this novel at age 80, proving creativity knows no age bounds - it went on to win the Philip K. Dick Award in 2002. 🔹 The author's fascination with horses and her experience in equestrian sports directly influenced the novel's unique perspective on human-as-mount relationships. 🔹 The "Hoots" were partially inspired by real-world symbiotic relationships in nature, such as those between ants and aphids. 🔹 The book explores actual scientific concepts of selective breeding and domestication, similar to how humans have shaped dogs from wolves over thousands of years. 🔹 Carol Emshwiller was also a celebrated short story writer who studied music and visual arts at the University of Michigan and later at the Paris École des Beaux Arts.