This anthology begins with a fascinating discussion of fiction and its subdivisions. The stories here are what might variously be termed “slipstream,” “surreal,” or “speculative” in different contexts. These editors prefer to call them “fabulist and new wave fabulist stories.” They are tales of weirdness and wonder, largely set in odd analogues of our own world. Not quite like ordinary literature, nor yet like typical fantasy, they hold a unique and intriguing flavor. My favorite story is “The Third Jungle Book: A Mowgli Story” by Michael Moorcock. Herein Mowgli has moved to London and become a lawyer. There he befriends the foxes who live in the city – and must fight against a proposed law which would kill most of them. Just wait until you find out who Mowgli’s “friend” is! Another gem is “Third Initiation: A Gift from the Land of Dreams” by Mary Mackey. Set in ancient times, this tale follows the potter Marrah as she strives to satisfy a demanding taskmaster during her initiation. The goal is to make a perfect pot, but the reason for it is the point of the story. Worth noting on the scientific side is Michael Constance’s “Finding the Words.” It questions the nature of reality and consciousness, as the main character travels through virtual reality. These and many other fine tales await you in ParaSpheres. You’ll enjoy them more if you don’t try to make sense of them. — S.ARDRIAN

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