A man survives a fatal car accident only to awaken in a future where consciousness transfer and corporate-controlled immortality have fundamentally altered the human experience. The protagonist navigates a disorienting 22nd-century landscape, attempting to reconcile his past identity with the technological and societal shifts of his new reality. Opposed by bureaucratic entities and the logical absurdities of a profit-driven afterlife, he must determine if his existence is a genuine extension of life or a manufactured commodity. The narrative utilizes a blend of sharp social commentary and speculative inquiry to examine the ethics of technological advancement.

Readers frequently highlight the sharp wit and satirical edge present throughout Sheckley's work, noting his ability to blend humor with existential dread. Discussion often centers on the prescient nature of his themes regarding consumerism and the commodification of human life. Critics observe that the pacing remains brisk, favoring conceptual exploration over dense world-building. Many appreciate the variety offered by the short story collection, which serves as an effective introduction to the author's unique voice. The collection is widely regarded as a significant example of mid-century speculative fiction that maintains relevance through its cynical yet imaginative outlook.