Exploring New Frontiers: A Review of The Apex Book of World SF: Volume 1
As a lifelong lover of science fiction and fantasy, I’m always on the lookout for works that push boundaries and broaden my horizons. That’s why The Apex Book of World SF: Volume 1, edited by Lavie Tidhar, instantly captured my attention. This anthology promised an eclectic mix of voices from Asia, Eastern Europe, and beyond—voices that might not frequently grace the pages of mainstream speculative fiction. Spoiler alert: it delivers!
This collection is a treasure trove of sixteen stories that range from the haunting to the fantastical, intricately weaving together threads of culture, technology, and the human experience. Each author offers a unique perspective that invites the reader to journey into worlds both familiar and uncharted. The anthology opens strong with S.P. Somtow’s "The Bird Catcher," a gripping tale that effortlessly melds horror with a child’s haunting friendship, setting a profound tone for what’s to come.
One of the key themes in these stories is the exploration of memory and connection, often through the lens of technology or the supernatural. Han Song’s "The Wheel of Samsara" and Dean Francis Alfar’s "L’Aquilone du Estrellas (The Kite of Stars)" beautifully illustrate how our pasts can entangle us, even as we strive for dreams and connections that seem eternally out of reach. As I read, I found myself reflecting deeply on how our identities are shaped by our experiences—an emotional resonance that is both powerful and lasting.
Tidhar’s skillful curation brings forth a delightful variety of narrative techniques. Some stories adopt a poignant, lyrical style, while others sprint at breakneck speed through fantastical landscapes. I was particularly enamored by Aliette de Bodard’s "The Lost Xuyan Bride," which blends elements of cultural heritage with intricate world-building, creating a rich tapestry that feels both intimate and vast. The pacing varied from contemplative to exhilarating, but each tale left its mark, whether through a vivid character, an evocative setting, or a twist that sent shivers down my spine.
Amidst the diversity of voices, I couldn’t help but appreciate the common thread of beauty and melancholy interwoven throughout. One moment that struck me came from Kaaron Warren’s "Ghost Jail," where the possibility of existence itself is questioned amidst supernatural shackles. It’s the kind of writing that lingers in your mind long after the final page.
If there were any critiques to be made, they would relate to the occasional inconsistency you might expect in an anthology—some stories resonated deeply, while others left me slightly disoriented. But that’s the joy of anthologies: the chance to discover new writers and styles, amid the hits and misses.
The Apex Book of World SF: Volume 1 is a must-read for anyone eager to expand their literary horizons. It beautifully encapsulates the spirit of speculative fiction, offering something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned genre enthusiast or a curious newcomer. This anthology not only left me feeling enriched but also excited about the myriad possibilities within the genre.
In a world where stories can often feel homogenized, Tidhar’s anthology serves as a vital reminder that speculative fiction is a vast, multicultural tapestry, threading through human experiences across continents. I wholeheartedly recommend it to readers craving adventure, diversity, and a touch of the extraordinary. After all, who wouldn’t want to soar among kites in the stars?
You can find The Apex Book of World SF: Volume 1 (Apex World of Speculative Fiction) here >>