Science Fiction Books

Librarian's Note: an alternate cover for this ISBN can be found here.Fragile Things is Neil Gaiman's second collection of short fiction.A mysterious circus terrifies an audience for one extraordinary performance before disappearing into the night, taking one of the spectators along with it.In a novella set two years after the events of American Gods, Shadow pays a visit to an ancient Scottish mansion, and finds himself trapped in a game of murder and monsters.Another short story is set in a strangely altered Victorian England, the great detective Sherlock Holmes must solve a most unsettling royal murder.Two teenage boys crash a party and meet the girls of their dreams and nightmares.The members of an excusive epicurean club lament that they've eaten everything that can be eaten, with the exception of a legendary, rare, and exceedingly dangerous Egyptian bird.Such marvelous creations and more, including a short story set in the world of The Matrix and others set in the worlds of gothic fiction and children's fiction, can be found in this collection, which showcases Gaiman's storytelling brilliance as well as his entertaining (and dark) sense of humor. By turns delightful, disturbing, and diverting, Fragile Things is a gift of literary enchantment from one of the most unique writers of our time.Contents:• A Study in Emerald • (2003) • novelette• The Fairy Reel • (2004) • poem (variant of The Faery Reel)• October in the Chair • (2002) • shortstory• The Hidden Chamber • (2005) • poem• Forbidden Brides of the Faceless Slaves in the Secret House of the Night of Dread Desire • (2004) • shortstory (variant of Forbidden Brides of the Faceless Slaves in the Nameless House of the Night of Dread Desire)• The Flints of Memory Lane • (1997) • essay• Closing Time • (2003) • shortstory• Going Wodwo • (2002) • poem• Bitter Grounds • (2003) • novelette• Other People • (2001) • shortstory• Keepsakes and Treasures: A Love Story • (1999) • shortstory• Good Boys Deserve Favours • (1995) • shortstory• The Facts in the Case of the Departure of Miss Finch • (1998) • shortstory• Strange Little Girls • (2001) • shortstory• Harlequin Valentine • (1999) • shortstory• Locks • (1999) • poem• The Problem of Susan • (2004) • shortstory• Instructions • (2000) • poem• How Do You Think It Feels? • (1998) • shortstory• My Life • (2002) • poem• Fifteen Painted Cards from a Vampire Tarot • (1998) • shortstory• Feeders and Eaters • (2002) • shortstory• Diseasemaker's Croup • (2003) • shortstory• In the End • (1996) • shortstory• Goliath • (1998) • shortstory• Pages from a Journal Found in a Shoebox Left in a Greyhound Bus Somewhere Between Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Louisville, Kentucky • (2002) • shortstory• How to Talk to Girls at Parties • (2006) • shortstory• The Day the Saucers Came • (2006) • poem• Sunbird • (2005) • novelette• Inventing Aladdin • (2003) • poem• The Monarch of the Glen • [American Gods] • (2003) • novelette

The Zombie Survival Guide provides a comprehensive guide for individuals to protect and safeguard themselves in the event of a zombie attack. With illustrations and clear instructions, this book covers everything from understanding the physiology and behavior of zombies to effective defense tactics and weaponry. It is an essential read for any fan of the zombie genre or individual looking to be prepared for any scenario.

Recommendation: Terra Nullius is a highly imaginative work that offers a thought-provoking allegory for colonisation and its brutal legacy. Set in a dystopian Australia, the novel depicts an alternate reality in which Indigenous peoples have been violently subjugated by colonisers. With its haunting prose, vivid imagery and strong themes of resistance and survival, it is an urgent and powerful read that offers a deeply unsettling yet important perspective on the ongoing legacy of colonisation. Highly recommended for fans of literary and speculative fiction alike.

Recommended for fans of time-travel narrative. This captivating, magical, and a deeply moving story presents the extraordinary journey of Harry August, who after living the same life over and over again has to save the future he cannot allow to happen. The writing is impeccable and the character of Harry is fascinating.

Animal Farm by George Orwell is a timeless classic that uses animals to discuss politics and satirize communism. It's an insightful look at totalitarian regimes and the dangers of unyielding power. If you're interested in satire and political commentary, this book is for you.

This book could be a good read for someone seeking a thought-provoking exploration of an alternative society where Eastern philosophy and Western science combine to create a utopia. The unique aspect of this book lies in its portrayal of Pala, an island where the inhabitants live by a different set of principles. As the journalist Will Farnaby immerses himself in this society, readers are taken on a journey that challenges conventional notions of progress, ultimately forcing them to question their own values and choices. Aldous Huxley's "Island" offers a compelling vision of a harmonious world and presents readers with an opportunity to reflect on their own lives and the possibilities of a different way of living.

Recommendation: - This collection of short stories by Neil Gaiman is a must-read for those who enjoy mind-bending tales that blur the lines between reality and fantasy. Each story is skillfully crafted to reveal the hidden magic of humanity, challenging our perceptions and delving into the depths of the human condition. Gaiman's unique literary style will leave you in awe, as you are transported into a world where anything is possible. Enter the realm of Smoke and Mirrors and prepare to be captivated by the astonishing and impressive tales that await you.

Recommendation: - This collection of seventeen stories offers a captivating journey through various genres, blending realism with experimental fiction. From nanotech clay monsters to a generation ship's secret salvation, each tale pushes the boundaries of form and trope. Whether you seek escapism or the thrill of exploring unconventional narratives, these transformative worlds and limitless imagination will keep you engaged from start to finish.

Off Armageddon Reef is an epic sci-fi tale of rebellion and war against a fabricated religion. David Weber weaves a complex world of intrigue, with the central character Merlin leading a centuries-long charge to take Safehold back from the Church of God Awaiting. Fans of detailed, world-building, intergalactic battle sagas will be hooked from the start.

As She Climbed Across the Table by Jonathan Lethem is an imaginative and quirky novel perfect for those who want to read a unique love story. The idea of a particle physicist falling in love with a void and having a love triangle with her ex-boyfriend is unconventional and refreshing. The story is filled with humor and mind-expanding concepts that will keep readers engaged till the end.

Star Trek: Picard: The Last Best Hope is a must-read for any fans of the science fiction genre who are eagerly awaiting the new Star Trek TV series. The novel delves deep into Jean-Luc Picard's past, providing backstory that will excite and enthrall readers. Una McCormack's writing is engaging and well-crafted, making it a perfect complement to the upcoming series. Overall, this book is a thrilling read that will leave fans of the genre eager for more.

The Time Traveler's Wife is a unique love story that challenges the idea of time and how it inevitably shapes our lives. The book delves into the complexities of relationships and explores the lengths two people would go to stay together - even if it means defying the laws of time. Readers will be enamored by the characters and how their love endures despite the obstacles.

"Magic for Beginners" is a must-read for fans of surrealism and magical realism. Kelly Link's unique talent for creating engaging and eerie stories is showcased in this collection of nine short stories. Each story immerses the reader in a world where the ordinary is made strange and the strange is made ordinary, leaving a lasting impression on the reader's imagination. Overall, this book is a great choice for those looking for a quirky and whimsical read.

"Sleeping Beauties is a thrilling novel that explores the complex and dangerous consequences of a hypothetical scenario in which women disappeared when they slept. The story is full of suspense and tension, with well-developed characters and a compelling plot. If you enjoy dystopian or horror fiction that makes you question the world around you, this book is an excellent choice."

The Lost World takes readers on an enthralling expedition to a prehistoric land full of exciting wonders, mysterious creatures, and unimaginable dangers. As a classic adventure story, this book transports readers to an enchanting fantasy world that will captivate them from start to finish. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's knack for vivid descriptions and captivating narrative will leave you hooked and entertained.

Attack On Titan 29 can be a good read for fans of post-apocalyptic and sci-fi stories with action-packed scenes, as well as those who enjoy a suspenseful and intense plot. The unique and distinctive feature of this book is the concept of The Titans and the mystery behind their existence, keeping the readers engaged and wanting to uncover more about the world and character development.

The Sudden Appearance of Hope is a book for those who are looking for a unique and intriguing protagonist that will keep them hooked until the end. The story of Hope Arden, a girl who nobody remembers, is full of adventure, danger, and unexpected turns. Despite the unusual concept, Claire North manages to make the story believable, and the reader can't help but root for Hope's success. The book tackles deeper themes such as memory, identity, and existentialism, making it a remarkable read for those in search of something more profound.