Via the excellent Biology in Science Fiction blog (which you really should be reading yourself, it is great), I discover the wonderful world of Genpets. They have to be the next big thing in kids’ toys. This is from their marketing brochure:

The entire Genpetsâ„¢ line-up pulls its basis from a natural stage of evolution in the market. Our idea ties together the best of packaging with the best of products. Dolls and robotic toys quickly become tiresome, while traditional pets require a high level of upkeep. Genpetsâ„¢ however, learn and adapt. They are living pets, but better, modified to be as reliable, dependable and efficient as any other technology we use in our busy lives.

Yep, that’s right. Mass-produced, bio-engineered pets. They even come in a range of personality profiles so that you can pick one that is best suited to your kid.

Getting suspicious yet? OK, I’ll put you out of your misery. The information you are looking for his here. I’m just sorry it has taken me so long to find this. It really deserved a Hugo nomination, but we are way too late. Still, the artist is Canadian. Montreal folks – listen up please – I want Adam Brandejs (and hopefully the Genpets exhibit) at Anticipation. See to it, please.