Turning Place — Jean Karl

Fearful of mankind's growing space exploration, an alien race known as the Chlordians wipes out nearly all of the planet's carbon-based life forms. Life on Earth is forever changed after the "Chlordian sweep," not only on account of the struggle for physical survival but also because of a shift in attitudes. Survivors experience a form of enlightenment that leads them away from competitive, destructive impulses and toward unity with all life. Ultimately, the catastrophic attack ushers in a new era of cooperation and peaceful coexistence.
Written from the perspective of a far-distant civilization, these nine "Stories of a Future Past" offer optimistic, thought-provoking perspectives on the possibilities for our planet's evolution. Even readers who are not already science fiction fans will be intrigued by these imaginative tales. Chosen as a Junior Literary Guild selection, The Turning Place is an outstanding book for young adults.