Green Grew the Lasses

"Green Grew the Lasses" by Ruth Laura Wainwright is a science fiction novella written during the early 1950s. The story revolves around an inexplicable phenomenon where women and girls in the town of Mimosa Beach suddenly turn green, causing chaos and confusion among the residents. The narrative explores themes of identity, societal norms, and the repercussions of unexpected events on community dynamics. The plot follows Helen Raymond and her family as they grapple with their sudden transformation into green-skinned versions of themselves. As panic ensues, it becomes clear that the only ones unaffected are the men. Amidst this strange occurrence, four enigmatic girls move in next door, claiming to be from Venus and insisting on the benefits of their alien ways. As more women start to experience unexplainable pregnancies, the community's absurdity escalates. Ultimately, the source of their plight—the faneweed—emerges as a crucial element, leading to revelations about societal expectations and the nature of motherhood. When the faneweed is eradicated, the characters return to their original selves, reflecting on their experiences and the bizarre journey they've endured.

Green Grew the Lasses, by Ruth Laura Wainwright. Republished by OpenStories from Project Gutenberg eBook #50842.