Sorry, I really can’t hold back on this one. From Green Man Review, regarding the Del Rey Book of Science Fiction and fantasy:
“The collection opens with a beautiful story by Jason Stoddard, “The Elephant Ironclads.” Not able to glean anything in particular from the title, I entered into this one with a clean slate. It turns out to be an alternate history, which the story’s intro describes as “based (as most of the best of the subgenre) on some unbelievable but actual historical events.” The story follows two young friends, Wallace and Niyol, on a short but grueling journey through the desert — first as guides, then captives, of two mysterious tourists with shady agendas. Adventure this story does have, and a gritty, absolutely believable social and historical backdrop. A story about choices, identity, and personal accountability, all on a very human and totally comprehensible scale. Absolutely one of the best stories I’ve read all year. Deserves major genre recognition and possibly awards.”
“An outstanding collection overall, with a diversity and breadth of scope not often seen in modern collections. A 2008 must-buy for anthology fans. Several award-worthy stories within, and if McHugh and Stoddard don’t win at least a couple between them, I’ll be sorely disappointed.”
September 17th, 2008 / Comments Off