Little Fuzzy. Illustrated

Little Fuzzy is a classic science fiction novel by H. Beam Piper that combines charm, adventure, and deep ethical questions about sentience and what it means to be truly "human." Originally published in 1962, the novel has remained a beloved and thought-provoking work in the genre.

Set on the distant planet Zarathustra, the story follows Jack Holloway, a solitary prospector who discovers a small, intelligent, and irresistibly cute creature he names "Little Fuzzy." As more of the Fuzzies appear, Holloway becomes convinced that they are not just animals, but a newly discovered sapient species — a claim that threatens the powerful corporate interests controlling the planet’s resources.

The novel unfolds as both a legal and moral battle, questioning the definitions of intelligence, rights, and personhood. With warmth, humor, and a keen sense of justice, Little Fuzzy explores how empathy and truth can stand up to greed and exploitation.

A timeless and accessible tale, Little Fuzzy is both a heartfelt story of interspecies friendship and a sharp critique of bureaucracy and corporate power — making it a standout in mid-20th-century science fiction.