From Publishers Weekly
This collection of 10 well written stories nicely illustrates the concept that fairy tale themes are universal, and that modern fantasy writers can give them a sophisticated, psychological and realistic approach while still providing a sense of wonder for all ages. In Barbara Hambly's Changeling, a hard-working Marchlord slays the dragon devastating his countryside and brings home to his wife and children what he finds in its lair: a mute child with two unusual companions. Anne McCaffrey's "The Quest of a Sensible Man" features a prince who seeks a suitable mate for his flying horse. The eponymous "Thistledown" in Susan Dexter's tale is a unicorn colt saved from from predatory hounds by a mute boy suspected of witchcraft. The spoiled princess in "The Fairy Godmother," by Lester del Rey, learns the rudiments of wise rule when she is taken in by an old couple after an attempted abduction. In Wayland Drew's "The Old Soul," an old woman's tale of the fall of a powerful city jolts three travelers out of their self-important lives . Illustrations not seen by PW .
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
From School Library Journal
YA-- In these ten short stories, YAs will sample the sure, skillful craftsmanship of Isaac Asimov, Terry Brooks, C. J. Cherryh, Lester del Rey, Susan Dexter, Wayland Drew, Barbara Hambly, Katherine Kurtz, Anne McCaffrey, and Lawrence Watt-Evans. Dragons, witches, princesses, princes, and others inhabit these modern tales of myth and magic. The text, full of wit, playfulness, imagery, and spirituality, is enhanced by the beautiful illustrations. A superb addition to any collection, this volume is a treasure.
- Judy Sokoll, Fairfax County Public Library, VACopyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.