Content levels
Trigger warnings
Positive tags
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Themes
Synopsis
When the planet Empyrea, a colony of genetically perfected human beings, demands that the Federation remove a science station which has been in place for nearly twenty years, the starship Enterprise is assigned to transport to the planet the Federation ambassador who negotiated with the Empyreans long ago - an ambassador who was once Dr. McCoy's closest friend, but is now a bitter rival. On Empyrea, McCoy discovers Anna, a daughter he never knew he had. McCoy soon realizes that the isolationalist Empyreans must not learn her father is an off-worlder, and that her genes are less than "perfect". As relations with the Empyreans collapse around him, McCoy must find a way to save his newfound daughter from the harshest penalty her planet can impose!
Is The Better Man appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
Classic Star Trek novel with themes of genetic discrimination and prejudice. Features tension around a hidden identity plot and ethical questions about eugenics, but violence and language are typical TV-level restraint.
What to know going in
This book has mild violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include ableism, class struggle, and forbidden relationship (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Star Trek fans will enjoy seeing McCoy face a personal crisis involving a daughter he never knew and a society that values genetic perfection over humanity.