Ann Heppermann

In his novel “The Flame Alphabet,” Ben Marcus imagines what would happen if children’s speech made their parents sick.

Why do scientists want to recreate viral monsters like the 1918 Spanish flu? And if they do, should they be allowed to publish the instructions?

Some of our culture’s most enduring monsters transmit their contagion through biting — werewolves, zombies, and vampires. Could these myths actually be about rabies?

Children with imaginary friends can be more empathetic and social, but does that mean they’re more creative than other kids?

Cindy Sherman launched her career by placing herself in photos that look like movie stills for imaginary movies. These are snapshots of America’s collective unconscious.