Orbit 13
Twenty stories of distinctly bleak 1970s speculative fiction, ranging from post-apocalyptic nightmares to reality-bending psychological horror. Doris Piserchia and Kate Wilhelm deliver some excellent work, but the relentless gloom left me exhausted rather than hungry for more.
The Last of the Dragons and Some Others
A collection of century-old children's dragon stories with delightful illustrations, witty dialogue, and wonderfully ridiculous inventions. The title story is a gem, but the others are often too simplistic for my tastes—and the period racism and distrust-of-adults storytelling make for an uncomfortable read.
The Far Forests
Fifteen charming, gently supernatural tales of romance, mystery, death, and other peculiarities. Joan Aiken makes even her macabre stories feel cozy and inviting, creating a quietly delightful collection with surprising moments of substance.