Stories rooted in fairy tales, myths, religion, and politics all have a place in this demanding work that showcases author Margo Lanagan's unique imagination and incredible gift for storytelling. Astonishing original plotting-even in stories inspired by oft-told tales-and language characterize a collection that is brilliantly arranged and brilliantly told. The first two stories feel somewhat hopeful, and then comes the darker third offering. By the fourth story, readers don't know what to expect, which is a hallmark of this author who balances brightness with despair. "An Honest Day's Work" is strange and unsettling, "Into the Clouds on High" oddly comforting, and "Ferryman" sweetly sad. The most mature and disturbing entry is "Catastrophic Destruction of the Head," which offers an unflinching look at the violence of soldiering and war, and of the transformative effect it can have on a once-gentle soul. It is a tale for mature readers, but one that is sadly resonant with our world today, as are so many of her stories despite their not-quite-of-this-world settings. In an author's note Lanagan discusses the genesis of the stories in this, her latest literary accomplishment. (Age 15 and older)