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Burns

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Pub Date Apr 01 2025 | Archive Date Aug 07 2025

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Description

In a universe where silence reigns and loneliness is the default setting, Burns, a search droid with a penchant for existential musings, embarks on a cosmic odyssey to find life among the stars. 

Flung into the dark vacuum of space alongside thousands of identical siblings, Burns traverses the uncaring void, searching for signs of life in the most remote corners of the universe. Once filled with wonder, Burns now drifts through the vast emptiness of space dejected by the absence of its digital pet, Cooper, who was deleted with all the grace of a clumsy programmer.

As the droid ages and its systems begin to fail, its emotional landscape darkens, morphing from a curious explorer into a defiant teen, grappling with the absurdity of its programmed existence. Longing for a meaningful connection, Burns provokes its logical operating system, PS, in a futile attempt to spark a conversation—an endeavour akin to discussing philosophy with a toaster.

Just when all hope seems lost, a peculiar occurrence stirs the celestial stillness, hinting at the possibility of something extraordinary on the horizon. Will Burns finally uncover the joy it seeks, or will its failing systems lead to a tragic end before it can embrace the wonders that await?

A darkly funny, poignant meditation on loneliness, identity, and the search for purpose, Burns is a beautifully crafted literary sci-fi novella unlike any other. Presented in a limited-edition, design-forward format (hardcover only), this is not just a story—it’s an experience.

In a universe where silence reigns and loneliness is the default setting, Burns, a search droid with a penchant for existential musings, embarks on a cosmic odyssey to find life among the stars. 

...


A Note From the Publisher

L’il Factory is an independent micro-press that celebrates creativity without compromise. Founded by artist and storyteller David Polfeldt, the press is dedicated to producing design-forward, limited-edition books that challenge convention and reward curious minds. Every title is crafted with care—from concept to cover—offering readers not just a story, but a collectible object of lasting value. With a mission to elevate niche, artful, genre-defying fiction, L’il Factory is a haven for literary oddities, poetic rebels, and anyone tired of mass-market sameness. Because sometimes, the best things come in small, unexpected packages.

L’il Factory is an independent micro-press that celebrates creativity without compromise. Founded by artist and storyteller David Polfeldt, the press is dedicated to producing design-forward...


Advance Praise

“Oddly beautiful and deeply moving, Burns is a cosmic fever dream in a linen-wrapped case.”

"Polfeldt takes big swings here—philosophy, poetic humour, even a touch of satire—and adeptly manages the landing. There’s a romantic quality to the way Burns keeps searching, keeps hoping. The book is unapologetically odd, brilliantly written, and designed to be held and kept—from the attention to detail in its physical form to the layers of metaphor tucked inside the prose. A must-read for anyone tired of formulaic fiction. Burns is a small book with a massive soul."

“Oddly beautiful and deeply moving, Burns is a cosmic fever dream in a linen-wrapped case.”

"Polfeldt takes big swings here—philosophy, poetic humour, even a touch of satire—and adeptly manages the...


Marketing Plan

Media and marketing enquiries to helenlewis@literallypr.com

Media and marketing enquiries to helenlewis@literallypr.com


Available Editions

EDITION Hardcover
ISBN 9789198995503
PRICE €22.00 (EUR)
PAGES 52

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