Kij Johnson is an American fantasy author celebrated for her evocative adaptations of Japanese Heian-era myths. Her work delves deeply into cultural motifs, weaving intricate narratives that explore themes of identity, transformation, and the liminal spaces between the human and the fantastical. Johnson's distinctive voice and meticulous prose have earned her acclaim, with her short fiction often recognized for its originality and profound psychological insight.
Exploring themes of animal intelligences and gender, this collection features a mix of traditional and experimental storytelling. It showcases award-winning author Kij Johnson's work from the past decade, including the World Fantasy Award-winning "The Privilege of the Happy Ending" and "The Dream-Quest of Vellitt Boe," alongside two previously unpublished stories. The diverse forms and thought-provoking narratives invite readers to reconsider the nature of stories themselves.
Set in a fantastical realm, the story follows Professor Vellitt Boe as she embarks on a quest to rescue a talented student who has eloped with a dreamer from the waking world. This journey not only showcases Vellitt's determination and strength but also explores themes of identity and the intersection of dreams and reality. As she navigates through challenges, the narrative delves into the complexities of love, ambition, and the responsibilities of mentorship in a richly imagined universe.
The river of Mist serves as a formidable barrier, splitting the Empire and creating perilous conditions for those who attempt to cross it. The Ferries, which navigate this treacherous waterway, rely on both luck and the extraordinary abilities of their crews to make these risky journeys. This unique setting establishes a backdrop for adventure and exploration in a world where the river itself feels almost sentient.
These stories feature cats, bees, wolves, dogs-- and even that most capricious of animals, humans.
Isolated for centuries, the exotic Dragon Empire is finally ready to join the United Federation of Planets. But first the emperor's eldest son must marry the only daughter of his oldest enemy, bringing to an end decades of civil war. Without the wedding, there can be no peace -- and no treaty with the Federation.As honored guests of the Dragon Empire, Captain Picard and the crew of the "Starship Enterprise" TM must ensure that the royal wedding occurs on schedule, despite the Empire's complicated and difficult codes of honor. And Dr. Beverly Crusher finds her loyalties torn when she wins the confidence of the unusually reluctant bride-to-be.More than just a treaty is at stake, for a vicious race of alien conquerors will stop at nothing, from assassination to invasion, to keep the Empire out of the Federation. Picard must use all his skills to save the Empire, and preserve the Dragon's Honor.