Finding Whimsy in the Pages: A Review of Year’s Best Fantasy 5
As an avid lover of all things fantastical, Year’s Best Fantasy 5 by David G. Hartwell and Kathryn Cramer caught my eye like a shimmering treasure, promising a magical escape into realms crafted by some of the genre’s most innovative minds. The idea of diving into a curated collection of fantasy—full of breathtaking twists and turns—ignited my imagination and drew me in, much like the allure of a well-told fairy tale.
This fifth volume in the Year’s Best Fantasy series is a cornucopia of inventive storytelling that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. Hartwell and Cramer, as seasoned editors, have a knack for gathering a diverse selection of voices that ranges from established favorites like Neil Gaiman and Tim Powers to emerging talents. Each story seems to be a portal into an enchanting world where the impossible becomes a tapestry of possibilities. Readers are whisked away to settings where miracles are tangible, and the haunting echoes of childhood fairy tales are reimagined with a grown-up lens.
One of the standout pieces, “Life in Stone” by Tim Pratt, captivated me with its poignant exploration of immortality and the complex relationship between an assassin and his weary target. The intimate exploration of desire and futility drew me in, much like the lingering notes of a beautiful song that play long after the music has stopped. Pratt’s storytelling is rich and textured, deftly blending tender themes of family and a personal quest for closure—an exquisite dance between sorrow and freedom.
Gaiman’s “The Problem of Susan” offers a twist on the nostalgia of childhood literature, questioning the very nature of growth and the often-painful dichotomy between innocence and experience. This familiar resonance ebbed within me, reminding me that our cherished tales can hold grave lessons as we traverse the choppy waters of adulthood. His writing sparkles with a haunting beauty, provoking readers to ponder existential truths wrapped in fantastical settings.
Yet, not every piece in this anthology is equally enchanting, and that’s part of the beauty of collections like this. As one reviewer noted, some tales may not reach the lofty heights of classics, but they certainly provide a flavorful taste of the year’s fantasy landscape. Even so, the editors’ ability to distill this vast year’s worth of stories into a cohesive album that captures diverse themes and styles is commendable.
The volume surges with a vibrant pulse, and while it may not all be perfect, that’s the essence of reading anthologies—every reader finds their own favorites, and perhaps, discovers new authors to fall in love with. As Bryan Eastin, one of the readers, so aptly put it, this is a collection for “anyone,” whether you’re a diehard fantasy aficionado or simply dipping your toes into the genre.
In conclusion, Year’s Best Fantasy 5 is a delightful tapestry—perfect for those who revel in short stories that evoke wonderment and introspection. It offers cherished escapism and a sense of community among readers who understand the genre’s art. So, grab a cozy blanket and a cup of tea, dive headfirst into these exceptional tales, and allow the magic within the pages to envelop you. It may just change your perspective on what fantasy truly can offer, as it did for me.
You can find Year’s Best Fantasy 5 (Year’s Best Fantasy Series) here >>