An intergalactic space mission from Earth tries to create a scientifically-based cooperative. The name of the ship is the Nefertiti, after the ancient Egyptian Queen. Captain Reeftart, his first mate Jane, and their enthusiastic crew first set foot on the friendly planet Stauron. The Stauronians share the Earthlings' hope for an interplanetary federation based on science. Although the Stauronian leader Glastia is skeptical, Reeftart believes that the Dirgonians will be receptive. However, Dirgon is a xenophobic, insular, and isolationist planet who, though benevolent, do not generally support measures to collectivize resources. Reeftart's optimism is tempered by Jane's pragmatism.

             Faced with the potential for failure, Reeftart conspires to trick the Dirgonians into starting their own collective; he believes that if the Dirgonians believe that they initiated the idea they would feel fully in charge. Reeftart obviously knows little about Dirgon or their core culture, for when the Nefertiti arrives on Dirgon, the host planet is remarkably friendly. The Dirgonians accept their offer to participate in a scientific federation, and Queen Elaine of Dirgon helps jump-start a new era.

             "Nefertiti" is a tale of political optimism and social success. The story also clearly warns against prejudging any culture and tries to persuade listeners to respect sovereignty. The science-fiction fairy tale includes gender role equality. I hoped that the story would send an optimistic message about the potential for different cultures to get along. Although we all have ulterior motives and prejudices, it can still be possible for disparate groups of people to get along. As long as each person respects the other, and as long as goals are mutually beneficial, no one needs to lie, cheat, or steal.

             The fairy tale is exactly that: in reality, human nature shows that deception is commonplace and that bickering and fighting are more common than cooperation.