I started this book years ago, but I read just a few stories and never got around to finishing it, probably because I just don't care much for short stories.
I finally read all the other stories, and overall this collection of stories was just okay. This book was a nice introduction to the writing styles of multiple authors, many whom I've never read before. However, I just wasn't interested in most of the stories. There were only two, maybe three, stories that I actually enjoyed.
I discovered that most of the stories were poorly developed, each using terminology from a world that was underdeveloped and barely described, making it hard for me, as the reader, to have a clear picture of what was happening. I think the biggest problem with short stories is that there is never enough world-building, character-building, and worthwhile plot development for the story to even begin to make sense before it ends. These problems, prevalent in this book, result in a story comprehensible only to those who already have an understanding of that particular world.
My favourite story from this anthology was "Skin Contact" by Kimberly Derting. Although shorter than most in this collection, it was descriptive in a way unlike the others, and it brought out emotions I don't usually feel while reading short stories. None of the other stories left a lasting impression upon my mind like this one did.
I would recommend this book for younger teen readers who enjoy paranormal stories.
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