A lone Texan rancher confronts an alien invasion unlike any he could have imagined. The story unfolds in a surreal landscape where the familiar is twisted into the bizarre, as extraterrestrial beings, the Cooters, descend upon the Earth with inscrutable motives. The protagonist must navigate this new reality, relying on his wits and a desperate hope for survival against a technologically superior but strangely vulnerable foe.

The collection is celebrated for its originality and the author's distinctive narrative style. Readers and critics often point to the novella 'Night of the Cooters' as a standout piece, lauded for its audacious concept and execution. The other stories are frequently noted for their imaginative breadth, blending genres and historical periods with a unique flair. This work solidifies Waldrop's reputation as a master of speculative fiction, offering thought-provoking and often surprising narratives that linger long after reading.