‘To Whom This May Come’ (1889) is a classic short story by the American author, Edward Bellamy, most famous for his socialist and utopian novel ‘Looking Backward: 2000-1887’ (1888).

First published in ‘Harper's New Monthly Magazine’, it tells the tale of an unnamed narrator who is the sole survivor of a shipwreck. Washed ashore on a remote island, he is horrified to discover that its inhabitants have the ability to read minds, but to his surprise, this unique ability has consequences he never expected.

This adventurous tale will excite those who are already familiar with Bellamy´s other short stories, as well as new readers who are looking for an interesting read.




Edward Bellamy (1850 - 1898) was an American author, journalist and political activist. His novel ‘Looking Backward: 2000-1887’ (1888) was one of the most successful books published in the United States in the 19th century and influenced a generation of intellectuals. Referenced in many Marxist publications of the time, the book inspired the formation of Nationalist Clubs dedicated to spreading his political ideas.

Bellamy’s other works include the novels ‘Six to One’ (1878), ‘Dr. Heidenhoff's Process’ (1880), ‘Miss Ludington's Sister’ (1885), ‘Equality’ (1897) and ‘The Duke of Stockbridge; a Romance of Shays' Rebellion (1900)’, as well as several short stories, such as ‘The Blindman's World’, ‘To Whom This May Come’, and ‘With the Eyes Shut’.