Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 58 votes)
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58 reviews
July 15,2025
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A collection of Zelazny's short stories is truly excellent.

It is a treasure trove filled with captivating tales that have the power to transport readers to different worlds and evoke a wide range of emotions.

Some of my all-time favorite stories can be found within its pages.

Zelazny's writing is masterful, with his unique ability to create vivid characters and intricate plots that keep you on the edge of your seat.

Each story is like a small gem, shining with its own brilliance and offering a different perspective on life, love, adventure, and more.

Whether you're a fan of science fiction, fantasy, or just great storytelling in general, this collection is a must-read.

It will leave you inspired, entertained, and eager to explore more of Zelazny's literary works.

So, if you haven't yet discovered the magic of Zelazny's short stories, now is the perfect time to do so.

You won't be disappointed.
July 15,2025
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I was extremely young when I read this particular piece. At that tender age, my comprehension skills were not fully developed, and as a result, I simply didn't get it.

I found the words and the concepts within the text rather confusing. It was as if I was looking at a complex puzzle with missing pieces.

The story or the ideas that the author was trying to convey seemed to go right over my head. I might have read the lines, but I failed to understand the deeper meaning and significance behind them.

Now, looking back, I realize that perhaps with more maturity and life experience, I would be able to appreciate and understand this work in a completely different light.
July 15,2025
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I am truly ashamed to admit that this happens to be my very first encounter with Zelazny's work.

The introductory paragraph of the titular story, "Unicorn Variation," had an immediate and powerful grip on me. The remarkable precision with which Zelazny selects his words, when combined with his sharp wit and the hint of subtle humor, creates an irresistible allure. It has left me with no choice but to add his other literary creations to my ever-growing "To Read" list.

I find myself eager to explore more of his works, anticipating the same level of craftsmanship and the unique blend of elements that have made this initial experience so captivating.

It is as if I have discovered a hidden treasure trove of literature, and I cannot wait to delve deeper into the world that Zelazny has crafted.

I am confident that each new work will offer its own set of surprises and delights, further solidifying my appreciation for this talented author.

July 15,2025
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In very brief: WHERE THE LADIES AT.

The most developed she-pronouned character in this collection is A CAR.

This might seem rather unusual at first glance. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that this car is not just a mechanical object. It has been赋予characteristics and qualities that make it almost seem like a female entity.

Perhaps it is the sleek design, the smooth curves that resemble a woman's figure. Or maybe it is the way it moves, with a certain grace and elegance.

Throughout the collection, the car is described in ways that bring it to life as a she. It has its own personality, its own charm.

It is a unique and interesting concept that challenges our traditional notions of what a character can be.

Whether we view it as a symbol or as a fully-fledged character, the car in this collection adds an element of surprise and intrigue.

It makes us look at the world around us in a different way and consider the possibilities of赋予inanimate objects with life and personality.

Overall, the development of the car as a she-pronouned character is a bold and creative choice that enriches the collection and makes it stand out.

July 15,2025
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This is an outstanding collection of Zelazny's short fiction, accompanied by several essays.

It features numerous stories crafted in experimental styles, clearly indicating that he was enjoying himself and having a great deal of fun while writing.

Although it doesn't include what I would regard as his absolute best works, it is highly entertaining, thought-provoking, and of remarkable literary quality.

Among them, my personal favorites are "The Horses of Lir," "Home is the Hangman," and the brilliant title story itself.

These stories have the power to transport readers to different worlds and make them think deeply about various aspects of life and human nature.

The collection as a whole is a must-read for fans of Zelazny and those who appreciate high-quality short fiction.

It offers a unique and engaging reading experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
July 15,2025
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One of the most beautiful tales of the Steel

The Steel has always been a source of inspiration for many. It represents strength, durability, and the ability to withstand the test of time.

Among the many stories related to the Steel, there is one that stands out as particularly beautiful. It is a story of a blacksmith who dedicated his life to the art of forging Steel.

The blacksmith was known for his精湛的技艺 and his ability to create weapons and tools that were not only strong but also beautiful. His work was highly sought after by warriors and craftsmen alike.

One day, a young apprentice came to the blacksmith, eager to learn the art of forging Steel. The blacksmith took the apprentice under his wing and began to teach him the secrets of the trade.

As the apprentice learned more and more, he became fascinated by the beauty of the Steel. He saw how the blacksmith could transform a rough piece of metal into a work of art.

Years passed, and the apprentice became a master blacksmith in his own right. He continued to create beautiful pieces of Steel, carrying on the legacy of his teacher.

And so, the story of the blacksmith and his apprentice became one of the most beautiful tales of the Steel, inspiring generations of people to appreciate the beauty and strength of this remarkable material.

July 15,2025
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A book of short stories from 1983

is a fascinating collection that offers a glimpse into the literary landscape of that era. These short stories, carefully curated and presented in this volume, cover a wide range of themes and genres.

Some of the stories may be humorous, while others might be thought-provoking or even heart-wrenching. Each story has its own unique charm and style, captivating the reader from the very first page.

The authors of these short stories were likely influenced by the events and trends of 1983, which adds an extra layer of depth and context to the collection. Whether you are a fan of short stories or simply interested in exploring the literature of a particular time period, this book from 1983 is sure to provide an engaging and enjoyable reading experience.

It allows you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the world of the stories, imagining the lives and experiences of the characters as they unfold on the page.

So, pick up this book of short stories from 1983 and embark on a literary journey that will transport you to another time and place.
July 15,2025
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SF & Fantasy short stories have always been a popular genre, and this collection is no exception.

Several of the stories in this book have won awards, which is a testament to the author's talent.

As always, his writing is a great read, full of vivid descriptions and engaging plots.

What sets this author apart is his ability to take fantasy elements and blend them into science fiction in strange and wonderful ways, and vice versa.

He does this with a deft touch, making it seem effortless and natural.

He is truly one of the few authors who can claim to be a master of both the novel and the short story.

Whether you're a die-hard SF & Fantasy fan or just looking for a good read, this collection is sure to satisfy.

So sit back, relax, and let the author take you on a journey through his unique and imaginative worlds.
July 15,2025
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Zelazny is truly, truly remarkable when it comes to short stories.

I found that I had a greater preference for his shortest stories over the longest ones in this collection.

Nevertheless, all of them are of high quality, featuring that perfect little twist or sting in the tail.

Well, perhaps not all of them; I do suppose there were a few that didn't leave much of an impression on me.

But for the most part, my overall impression is that it is a strong collection.

I had a great deal of affection for "Dismal Light," and "The George Business" brought a smile to my face.

"Recital" was powerful and had a sort of sadness to it, yet not quite, presenting a nice blend of emotions.

With so many stories in this collection, I really don't think I could single out just a few.

It's a diverse and engaging assortment that offers something for every reader of short fiction.
July 15,2025
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My favorite story from the collection of stories and essays was The George Business.

This story had a unique charm that really captured my imagination. It had elements that made me think of the movie Dragonheart, starring Sean Connery as Draco and Dennis Quaid as Bowen.

In The George Business, the characters and their adventures were so vividly described that it felt like I was right there with them. The plot was full of twists and turns, keeping me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end.

Just like in Dragonheart, there was a sense of magic and adventure in The George Business. The relationship between the main characters was complex and engaging, much like the bond between Draco and Bowen in the movie.

Overall, The George Business was a truly captivating story that left a lasting impression on me. It combined elements of mystery, adventure, and friendship in a way that was both entertaining and thought-provoking.

I would highly recommend this story to anyone who enjoys a good read and is looking for something that will transport them to another world.
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