Title: The Lemming Factor
Author: Isobelle Carmody
In: Green Monkey Dreams (Isobelle Carmody)
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Family, Retellings
Pace: Slow
Format: Short story
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Year: 1996

Something about this short story made it feel like everyone was just… charging towards their death. Which kind of makes sense, since its a story called The Lemming Factor. And even, with the uncertain ending to this, I still felt like the majority had literally been running towards their death.

The Lemming highlights how damaging it can be to only look out for yourself. And how the great importance of loyalty and family is what often carries us through. I love that one of those who was thought to be the ‘winners’ of the race, was more focused on their family.

I felt like there were so many meanings to this story. And many possible interpretations. But, even if you’re not trying to unravel the hidden meanings, the very simple act of running after the pied piper provided and entertaining read.

Image source: Allen & Unwin