In the early 2000s, C.M. Kosemen released his speculative evolution science fiction novel All Tomorrows: A Billion-Year Chronicle of the Myriad Species and Varying Fortunes of Man online for free. Now, after a surge in popularity in 2021, All Tomorrows is finally getting a printed edition. More than just an entertaining read, this book represents a pivotal moment for a previously overlooked subgenre of science fiction.
All Tomorrows is a work that blends science fiction, evolutionary theory, and body horror to present a unique narrative about the far future of humanity. The book chronicles the journey of post-human species shaped by alien manipulation and natural selection over the course of a billion years. Kosemen’s detailed artwork and eerie storytelling immerse readers in a deeply unsettling yet fascinating speculative future.
The History of Speculative Evolution Fiction
Speculative evolution is a science fiction subgenre that focuses on the possibilities of evolution. A well-known example is the world of James Cameron’s Avatar (2009), where artists incorporated evolutionary biology, paleontology, and ecology to create plausible alien lifeforms. They extrapolated real-world science to imagine organisms that could evolve under different environmental conditions.
One of Kosemen’s inspirations for his body horror artwork, which later became All Tomorrows, is Dougal Dixon, author, and artist of After Man: A Zoology of the Future (1981). Alongside works by Olaf Stapledon (Last and First Men[1930] and Star Maker [1937]) and Douglas Barlowe (Expedition [1990] and God’s Demon [2007]), these authors paved the way for the speculative evolution genre, imagining how life could develop on Earth and beyond. Dixon’s After Man explored the future evolution of animals following the extinction of humanity, while Stapledon’s Last and First Men took a broader cosmic perspective, chronicling the rise and fall of multiple human species over millions of years. Kosemen builds upon these ideas, adding an element of horror through the intervention of the alien Qu, who radically reshapes humanity into grotesque new forms.
From I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream to All Tomorrows
For a long time, speculative evolution remained a niche genre that few knew about—until 2021, when lockdowns had people stuck indoors, consuming more online media than ever. Like many others, I first discovered All Tomorrows while doom-scrolling on TikTok. One moment, I was watching a video about Harlan Ellison’s short story I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream, and minutes later, I found the All Tomorrows animation by GRUGSTON.
Other disturbing examples of these strange and grotesque human species include the Lopsiders, who were altered by their environment to become completely asymmetrical creatures, and the Modular People, designed to be able to rearrange their body parts at will. Each species showcases both the limitless creativity of evolutionary possibilities and the sheer cruelty of their imposed transformations. The growing interest in body horror and existential dread in online spaces helped fuel the resurgence of All Tomorrows, as readers became fascinated with its eerie yet thought-provoking themes. Discussions on Reddit, YouTube, and Twitter further amplified its reach, turning it into a cult classic almost two decades after its initial release.
The growing interest in body horror and existential dread in online spaces helped fuel the resurgence of All Tomorrows, as readers became fascinated with its eerie yet thought-provoking themes. Discussions on Reddit, YouTube, and Twitter further amplified its reach, turning it into a cult classic almost two decades after its initial release.
Why Does This Printed Edition Matter So Much?
All Tomorrows has never had a physical edition before. It was originally made freely available on the internet, which helped it gain widespread attention—unlike other speculative evolution works that require deep searches to find. Even with this new printed edition, the book remains accessible online for free.
So why buy the physical version? First, the new edition includes exclusive content such as species commentary and never-before-seen artwork. The cover design is stunning, making it a must-have for collectors. And, of course, this is the first-ever official printed edition of All Tomorrows—a historic moment for the genre.
Additionally, having a physical copy allows for a more immersive reading experience. Kosemen’s artwork is integral to the book, and a printed edition ensures that readers can appreciate the intricate details of his illustrations without the distractions of digital screens. The inclusion of additional commentary that will be available nowhere else.
Why You Need to Buy This Book
If you’re a fan of speculative evolution, this book belongs on your shelf. If you love stunning artwork, this book is for you. Even if you just enjoy collecting rare and unique books, this is a one-of-a-kind edition that may never be reprinted.
Beyond its value as a collector’s item, All Tomorrows is a work that sparks curiosity and discussion. It raises profound questions about human identity, survival, and the unintended consequences of genetic manipulation. In an age where artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and space exploration are advancing rapidly, the themes of All Tomorrows feel more relevant than ever.
For those who have followed the book’s journey from an obscure internet oddity to a widely recognized masterpiece, this printed edition is a testament to its enduring appeal. It is a celebration of speculative evolution, science fiction, and the limitless power of imagination. Pre-orders have started on the Unbound website and will be published on August 20th, 2025. So, Don’t miss your chance to own a physical copy of All Tomorrows—a landmark in speculative evolution fiction.
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