"The Toxic Donut" is a science fiction story written by Terry Bisson. The innovative narrative style used by the author is one of the story's most outstanding attributes. Although at first it seems that Ron, the story's narrator, is speaking directly to the reader, it soon becomes evident that Ron is speaking to Kim, another character in the story. Kim does not speak directly back to Ron. Her responses and questions are implied by Ron's comments.

The story takes place during the rehearsal of a live, televised program. Kim is the guest of honour and Ron, as the host's chief administrative assistant, is helping her walk through the events of the show. The assistant tells Kim that he has been working for this particular annual program for six years. He begins by congratulating Kim on being chosen as the guest of honour. He tells her...