What happens when the universe sends… cats… to nudge humanity in a better direction, one “paw biscuit” at a time? 🐾

In this episode I’m joined by Momoko Uno, author of the sci-fi comedy Hello Humans, where an Intergalactic Committee debates whether Earth deserves an invitation to the cosmic family, and a parade of species (Feline Federation included) get far too involved in our messy little sandpit.

We talk behaviour-first worldbuilding: how to make alien species feel genuinely distinct (not just different costumes), why her “one species per chapter” structure matters, and how comedy can smuggle in sharp social commentary without turning into a lecture. Expect Greys, octopus hybrids, weird cosmic ethics, and at least one moment where you’ll think, “I can’t believe she played that straight.” (Especially when I went all HP Lovecraft)

If you like speculative fiction craft, big themes delivered with a grin, and the occasional roast of humanity, this one’s for you.

Momoko's website: http://momokowrites.com/

This episodes website page: https://richardsonsrubicon.com/momoko-uno-hello-humans-behaviour-first-worldbuilding-make-factions-clash-not-just-look-different/

This episodes discussion page: https://richardsonsrubicon.com/community/season-5-speculative-fiction-where-worlds-meet/can-comedy-tackle-serious-themes-in-speculative-fiction/

#SciFiComedy #WorldBuilding #SpeculativeFiction #WritingCraft