This is a collection of three stories. The first deals with Ender's father growing up as a non-conformist and laying the groundwork for his adult choice to have more than two children. While Card certainly made it clear Ender's parents were smart, here he really takes the opportunity to show how John-Paul's intelligence contributes to the sly intellect of Peter, the social conscience of Valentine and the gentle strength of Ender. The second is a quick story of how Ender met Jane. The third is the original short story which led to the novel. The third story was interesting as I was able to pick out several changes made between it and the published novel. Excellent companion book.