I first encountered Cordwainer Smith when I was in grade school, checking every book out of the library that I could find under Science Fiction. Some of my favorite stories were the often-anthologized "Game of Rat and Dragon" and "Scanners Live in Vain." I began seeking out his stories anywhere I could find them, but aside from the wonderful novel Norstrilia, I could find few more.

How exciting that the NESFA Press has brought all of these stories together in one book. It was such a joy rediscovering old favorites, and also finding real gems (such as "The Dead Lady of Clown Town") I had never seen anywhere before.

This volume is a must-have for anyone who cares about classic science fiction short stories. In it are some of the best examples of the genre. A short list of the stories in this volume that you MUST read would include: "Alpha Ralpha Boulevard", "The Game of Rat and Dragon", "A Planet Called Shayol", "Mother Hitton's Littul Kittons", and the aforementioned "Dead Lady of Clown Town."

The title of one of Smith's collections that originally contained many of these stories was You Will Never Be the Same. What a great title, and how accurate. You won't be.

A few years ago I encountered, in an undistinguished anthology of Year's Best Something-Or-Other, a short science fiction story called "The Ballad of Lost C'mell." Love at first sight. I ransacked used book stores, the crowded shelves and dusty boxes of my house, and even libraries to find more short stories written by this miraculous Cordwainer Smith. I managed to assemble eight or nine, all from various anthologies, before my parents took pity on me and gave me "The Rediscovery of Man" for my birthday. Smith's writing is so good, it's intoxicating: you put down his writing with your head full of fantastic images, from underpeople toiling away in the mysterious corridors of Downdeep-downdeep, to star sailors riding the interstellar winds, the indescribable poetry of Space-3 and the strange futile lives of the Scanners. In my eyes Cordwainer Smith has only one fault-he died too soon! How dare he leave such a colorful, complicated, weird and wild future universe unfinished? Fortunately he left these stories, and if you have not already read them, I suggest you waste no further time in discovering the Instrumentality of Mankind and the universe around it. And even if you've read the stories before, read them again. They're just as good the second time around . . . or the fifth . . .or the fortieth . . .

At the age of thirteen, I fell on a beat up copy of Norstrilia, and fell in love with Smith's works. I soon got a copy of "The Best of Cordwainer Smith" and it vanished on a summer camp trip. It took me years to replace it. Imagine my delight to have all those loved stories in one (heavy) volume, unlikely to go astray!

As you probably know, Smith was actually Dr. Paul M.A. Linebarger, a Johns Hopkins professor and specialist in Asian affairs. He was a master of psychological warfare.

His stories fit no easy category. They are not fantasy, they are not hard science fiction, they are not alternative history. They incorporate bits and pieces of Asian culture and myth. They are often troubling, haunting. "The Dead Lady of Clown Town" ends with most of its characters dead or with their minds wiped, yet it is a happy ending for all that, with Joan's views obviously spreading through the underpeople. "Under Old Earth" is a fascinating tale, filled with allusions that must be beyond the scope of this note. Even "War No. 81-Q", the original version of which was written by Smith as a teenager, is an excellent story. "Alpha Ralpha Boulevard" is simply one of the great SF short stories of all time. I could go on, but . . .

The volume also includes the Casher O'Neill trilogy, that I had read of, but not seen before.

If you haven't read Smith before, this is how to buy his stories, so that you have them all. If you have--well, again, you'll have them all.

It's worth it. Buy it.

Okay, how to start...but, one problem: once I start, I won't be able to end. The legend of the Firebringer. The most ingenious, original, beautiful piece of writing I have ever, ever come across. It is a masterpiece. If ever you have read any books based on unicorns: throw those aside. Cast all other visions aside. Read, and be entranced. It is just beautiful.

This world that Ms. Pierce has created is unlike any other. The unicorns that dwell in it have their own society, culture, and legends...their own world, apart from ours, unlike anything you would ever imagine. Aljan, prince of the unicorns, young and headstrong: his life is changed forever during his initiation as a Warrior -- travelling to the sacred Mirror of the Moon in the midst of his ancestors' lands; stolen by the wyverns. For four hundred years, his people, the unicorns, have been exiled from their rightful home: the Hallow Hills. And now, four hundred years later, young Jan discovers his destiny as the legendary Firebringer, and goes forth to weave yet another legend in his life alone.

The story is unforgettable. It has touched a place in my heart and every single time I re-read this book and its followers, Dark Moon and the Son of Summer Stars, I find something new...something different, deep that I didn't catch before. Forever these books are at the top of my favorites list: their name is engraved, never to fade. Hard though they are to find, you will never ever forget them, and you will treasure them forever to come. For no one who has ever read them will ever forget the story and the legend of the Firebringer...

I ordered this book back in 5th grade (about 12 years ago) from one of those clubs...Arrow, I think...for $1.00!!! I practically wore it out from reading it so many times. However, when I moved, the book disappeared. Why don't we see more books written for young adults like this one?

My whole idea of unicorns changed when I read this book. They weren't delicate little white wimpy things, they were hardened, tough warriors who came in deep, rich colours of every variety. I miss this book...and I missed the second in the trilogy...and I'm still trying to get the third. Read everything you can by Meredith Ann Pierce. Please.

This is undoubtedly the best fantasy book ever written about unicorns. The story begins with a fiery young unicorn prince, Jan, who more than anything, wants to prove himself to his father, Korr. Although Jan's curiosity and love of pranks and tricks gets him into trouble, a valiant fight to protect his people from a vengeful griffon helps encourage his father's decision to let him go with the other soon-to-be warriors on their pilgrimage across the Great Plain. The journey shows Jan that there is far more to the world than just that within his people's ring. He begins to question his destiny and what he is to become. Little does he know what future lays before him, how the wyverns who took over his people's lands and the prophecy of the Firebringer will affect his life and of all unicorns.Meredith Ann Pierce brings a rich history, language and culture not only to the unicorns, but to all the mythical creatures in her book. Her writing style, great imagination and wide diversity of incredibly detailed characters makes her unicorn's world so believeable, it is difficult to read other author's books about them. This book has a powerful message about following your heart, personal triumph, responsibility, selflessness, standing up for what you believe in and much more. Once you pick up this book, you'll not want to put it down. I highly recommend obtaining a copy of Birth of The Firebringer as well as the other two books in this captivating trilogy. Since, once you get started, you'll not want to stop until you've read this series in its entirety. It should never have been taken out of print. This is one story that would make a great animated motion picture. Give this book a chance. You will not be sorry!

This is a great book, which I strongly suggest. My sister had told me that it was a great book and that I should read it. At first I didn't believe her because we sometimes have different ideas on which books are good and which books are bad. I read it and was very glad that I had listened to her, because if I hadn't, I would have been missing out on a really great book. It starts out with Onua, the horse manager for the king, looking around to buy horses. She meets Daine, a girl with only a horse for family. Onua hires Daine as a helper. Daine rescues Numair Salmalin, when he is in the shape of a hawk. When he is well and back in the shape of a human, he, Onua, and Daine go back to the palace. Numair finds out that Daine has Wild Magic, which is a type of magic that lets her talk to animals and heal animals. I don't want to give away the whole story, so that's all that I'll tell you.

Even now, at age 13, riffling through the well worn pages of my beloved Immortals series, I wonder how it is humanly possible to write books so amazing. I've always loved fantasy, and Tamora Pierce is my favorite author, and always has been. This entire series is a must read for any fantasy nut. It's just like a good smoothie - the perfect blend of everything. Humor, adventure, a touch of romance and a whole lot of enchantment, I consider the Wild magic story one of Ms.Pierce's finest. The young girl Daine, who has the wonderful gift of animal speech, and even shape shifting, starts out as a sad orphan who's lost her family.It was wonderfull to "watch" her slowly heal, and discover herself shinig through her past. But I really felt myself connect with all the characters, and I consider that one of the most important things about novels. I recommend this book for anyone who likes a good fantasy.

I have read all Tamora Pierce's books so far and I think this is her best yet! This book is about Daine a 13 year old who has 'Wild Magic' which means the power to communicate, change into, and heal animals. In this book she faces off to the evil stormwings and their queen, Zaneth Bitterclaws. But she is not alone in this fight for she soon teams up with Cloud a horse with strong opinions, Numair who teaches her about her 'Wild Magic', Onua who hires her to help with the horses, King Jonathon, Queen Thayet and the Riders and Kitten a baby dragon. They all know the emporer of Carthank is involved somehow with all the 'Immortals' running about but they can't prove how. Alanna is also in this book so if you've read the 'Song of the Lioness' series this is a must read. This book is full of magic and fantasy and is my favorite book so far

A beautifully produced book. If you are a beginner or if you are intimidated by other yoga books, this is a wonderful place to start.

There are eight programs that get progressively more challenging but, not never to the point where you can't do them. I love doing these exercises and even on those exhausting days I can still do program one. Highly recommended.

I wanted a book that would show me how to do the yoga postures. One that would focus mainly on the postures and less on the meditative aspects of yoga. I found both in this book. It has easy to follow step-by-step instructions which give you alternate forms of the posture if you are unable to achieve the posture at your range or level. The book gives you weekly workouts to let you know how long to try things before moving on to the more difficult postures. I have recommended this book to friends and family alike. A Great Book.

"Yoga is the most powerful system of stress management, but it is also more than that: it is a system for transforming our awareness and quieting down our mind and body to experience inner sources of peace, joy, and well-being. I highly recommend YOGA FOR YOUR LIFE as a practical and clear guide to getting started in yoga."

In this book, Daine a 15 year old girl goes to Carthak to heal the emperors birds and to sign a peace treaty between the two counties. Daine meets a the prince Kaddar and befriends him. After a few days Daine relizes the emperors hatred against Daine's teacher and friend, Numair. The one thing I dont like about this book is that Varice, Numair's old girfriend, pays a nighttime visit to him. Although they dont go much into that topic I still found it offensive. I recemend this book to ages 12-15.

Wow...this was an amazing book. It was my favorite out of all the immortal books. I love the way the setting is set up and described; it really jumps at the reader. This novel is about a girl named Daine who posesses wild magic. She and others from Tortall are visiting an emperor for peace talks. When the emperor turns out to be evil as was first thought, it takes courage and determination for Daine to put him down with the help of a special gift from the badger. Hey....those of you who have read it....is there something between Numair and Daine here? I first saw it in the first book and it gets stronger as the stories go along. Now I'm nearly sure that Numair loves her and I really REALLY have to read the fourth book. If there really isn't anything between them I'll cry...and that would just be wrong. Anyway, this series really really REALLY draws you in so BEWARE!!!!!! I loved this book and I hope that you will, too.

I personally think that out of the Immortals series, this has GOT to be the best one yet...I hope the last one is a great as this and the rest of the series.

Ok, I'm just gonna say it, I knew there was gonna be this romance thing goin on between Daine and Numair from the first time they met (when he was a human). But it's great because they look adorable together(metaphorically speaking). The only thing that kinda made me mad was when Numair had a little "talk" with Kaddar. I still can't believe he did that, I mean talk about being hypocritical...it's all right for him to go around with a blond-haired-bimbo who wears dresses so tight that they could choke a bear, but it's not all right for Daine to be friends with a prince...let alone anything else...but I guess it was just because he was doin one of those crazy things that people do when they are in love so it's partially excusable. Lookin beyond all that; they're perfect for eachother.

I hope all of you who read this book/series will love it as much as I have.

These books are the most incredible, fabulous, wonderful unicorn books ever written. Pierce's unicorns are fighters, not dull wimpy little maiden-chasing white unicorns of lore, but strong warriors that come in all colors and sizes.

The plot is ingenious, and the dark secret Korr holds will hold you till the end. With lush description and astounding plot twists, this excellent conclusion to the Firebringer series is so beautifully written it nearly made me cry. Jan is the ultamite hero.

This series is without a doubt the best portrayl of unicorns ever written. If you feel at ALL for unicorns, this book is ESSENTIAL. Forget about all the other so called "unicorn" books you've read or heard about, these are what you are looking for. This is the real thing. This blows all other author's interpretions of unicorns far away in its uniqueness and wonderful, unforgettable characters and places. Fantastic. Beyond description.

Once I picked up the first book in this series, I couldn't put it down. I was a matter of days before I got the third one. This is a fabulous sequel to "The Birth of the Firebringer" and "Dark Moon". The story of how Jan finally drove the secret out of his father, Korr, and how he discovers his and Tek's true identity is shocking. It left me thinking for months. This is truly the best book I have ever read, and a worthy sequel to the previous books.

It is both my honor and my privlage to write reviews for these books, being the most undeservedly obscure trilogy of unicorn stories ever written. Anyone who likes fantasy, or unicorns will appriciate this book, as you finally learn Korr's secret, and dare to dream a unicorn and a gryphon can yet find true happiness. Please, search out these books and read them. They don't deserve the early grave they have been dug by the media and publishers. Only your participation can save a great work for destruction, and we're running out of time. Hopefully, with the great resurgence in fantasy, we can affect their future. Skywater, vice-president of the Firebringer Fan Club

ALANNA: THE FIRST ADVENTURE is a must-read for teens as it is very involving and entertaining; audiences will undoubtedly fall in love with Alanna as she is skillful, stubborn and spunky. Using a limited-omnicient point-of-view, Pierce allows readers to not only enter the mind of Alanna, but to also sympathize and relate her character as well. Alanna becomes even realer as readers see her struggle in perspiration, as to eventually attain the title of "Knight". However, it is best recomended that girls read this book, as boys will hardly relate or understand a story about the problems and struggles of a female aspiring to be a knight.
Having read THE PROTECTOR OF THE SMALL SERIES prior to reading THE SONG OF THE LIONESS QUARTET, I have noticed too many similarities in the the personalities and book plots of the two quartets. We see that Keladry's perils are all too familiar when compared to Alanna's. In each, there is the classical "school bully", and the immediate attainment of a close friend. Here, Ralon parallels Joren, as Prince Jonathan parallels Neil. As in LADY KNIGHT, in ALANNA there is a prophetic vision that leads to the final battle in the book. Although these similarities make the book slightly dull, Alanna's first adventure is definately more enthralling than Kel's battle with the spidrens, as readers are itching to know about the secret of the Black City. Readers will be slightly dissapointed when the books are read sequentially and become somewhat predictable. Although ALANNA suffers the minor flaws, the book is overall, exaclty what Booklist says it is: "A lively, facinating tale."

I first saw this book at a bookstore about a year ago, absorbed in my world of brats and stupidity. It wasn't really the kind of book I read back then (as I said I was a brat) but it looked sort of cool so I picked it up anyway. I read it all in 2 days, i couldn't put it down! Since then I've read all of Tamora Pierce's books, this particular series I've read 5 times! If it weren't for these books, I wouldn't have started to love the Internet (it's a long story) and I wouldn't have done so many things that I've done, like take up fencing, start writing stories, made a website dedicated to Tamora Pierce... I love these books! I cried when I finished the series, then I started reading them again!

If anyone doesn't like these books, they'd better not say it to me! If you don't think you'd like them, think again! Some people who've read this are 8, some are 19, everyone can relate to the characters in their own way.

Since I read these books, I've become Alanna. She's my heroine, she's my best friend, she's everything. I love the way the series starts, I love the way it ends. I fell in love with George as soon as she met him, I was as mad at Jon as Alanna was in the third book. I cried when Liam died. In all, I love these books!

Alanna: The First Adventure is the first book I have ever read of Tamora Pierce's and is probably one of the best books I have and ever will read. I must admit, before Tamora Pierce I have never been a huge fan of fantasy. However, thanks to Tamora Pierce I have certainly changed my mind. The first book of the Song of the Lioness quartet is probably my favourite because everything begins in it. At the very beginning Alanna proves to be a very likable character: stubborn, conscientious, funny and nice. As it is impossible for girls to become knights she desguises herself as a boy and sets out to become a knight in the palace in Tortall. She makes good friends with important people, such as Prince Jonothan and the King of Thieves, George. She also makes enemies, such as Ralon and she despises Duke Roger of Conte, without any reason. As well as this she finally overcomes her fear of her magic and because of this she saves one of her closest friends. The end of the book isn't all resolved but her secret is discovered by Jon while fighting the Ysandir. However, I've got six words of warning: THIS BOOK WILL GET YOU ADDICTED!

Since I gave "First Test" 5 stars, I really need 6 for this one. It's even better! The second book in the Protector of the Small series, "Page" covers Keladry's last three years as a page in knighthood-training school. We meet several new characters: Lalasa, Kel's maid, whom Kel hires in order to protect her from ill treatment by others; Owen, the young page whose favorite word is "jolly"; and a new animal friend (in addition to Kel's cranky yet loyal horse, Peachblossom, and her helpful flock of sparrows), the faithful dog Jump. Kel continues to stand up to bullies and works to conquer her fear of heights. Her mysterious benefactor bestows more gifts on her. Keladry of Mindelan is an admirable and likable heroine, and in this book she shows her courage, resourcefulness and leadership ability. If you haven't read the two previous Tortallan series, The Song of the Lioness Quartet and The Immortals, don't delay! These are all well-written, exciting, fun fantasies that can be enjoyed by both young readers and grown-ups.

Ms. Pierce has managed to write yet another absolutly fantastic book. I have read all of the Alanna books; the Immortals quartet; and the circle of magic quartet. I am falling in love with this series, I bought The first test yesterday afternoon and begged my mother to go buy the sequel that night. Today I have read THE PAGE twice and THE FIRST TEST once more. I have fallen for both Neal and Cleon and am looking forward to hopefully something more between one of them and Kel in the next novel. Joren continues to puzzle me and I am dying to see who picks Kel for a squire in the next book. Owen is such a sweet heart, u cant help likeing him! Kel possess's the charm of all Ms. Pirce's other characters plus an sweet personality that makes me want her as my best friend. The only slight complaint I have is that Kel has not yet discovered who her sedret gift giver is...its SO obvious! Anyway it was a wonderful book and I cant wait for the next one!

In this new and exciting adventure, Kel starts off by being an eleven year old, second-grade page. After proving to everyone that she is here to stay, she does not think that Joren and his gang of bullies will bother her or other first-year pages again; however, the beginning of the term sees Keladry getting into yet another fight. Following this fight, she makes a new friend, Owen.

However, he is not the only new addition to Kel's group of friends. Kel soon comes to love Jump, a palace dog, who is old and has lost an ear and bears many scars. Kel also hires Lalasa, Gower's neice, as a maid, thinking that by doing so, Lalasa wil stop being mistreated by men. Kel teaches Lalasa how to defend herself, at first against her maid's wish, but Lalasa soon evolves into a strong, independant young woman who is not afraid to let men know the meaning of the word "no".

Lalasa is not the only person that evolves. Now that Kel has reached puberty, she must learn to deal with her new feelings for Neal, her best friend, and she learns the joy - and hardships - of entering womanhood and getting her menstruation. She must also learn to conquer her fear of heights, which she thinks is necessary in order for her to become a knight.

While things aren't always easy at the palace, Kel manages to pull through it all and, at the end of the book, she finally becomes a squire. This book was highly enjoyable and just as good as the previous one. I cannot wait to read the continuation, rightly entitled Squire! I am not at all disappointed and I thoroughly believe that Tamora Pierce has managed to write yet another fantasy story, filled with adventure and action. Congratulations Tamora!

Knowing that her beloved Irrylath is unfree of the spell of the white witch, an evil enchantress, Aeriel journeys onward, seeking the mythic steeds that will carry her husbands' brothers (and him) into battle against the Darkangels, angel like creatures, but with a vampiric nature. This is a true fantasy book, one of the finest I've ever read, and I've read a lot of books. Still, please, I beg you, put the third book, The Pearl of the Soul of the World back into print. You just can't leave us readers hanging like that... Or can you?

This is by far the best book in the Darkangel Trilogy; it stands on its own quite well, although the prequel and sequel should be sought out if you want to find out about the ends of the story.

Pierce's lyrical style is reminiscent of Robin McKinley's or Patricia McKillip's. It is simply adorned language that flows easily and can take your breath away. With words she paints a vivid, colorful world as fantastically beautiful as any other you would find. And in that land great things are stirring--

Aeriel, who has given her heart away, must leave the man to whom it belongs to fulfill a prophecy. While seeking the vanquished guardian lons, she meets friends and enemies alike. Although these characters are enjoyable by themselves (save admittedly flat antagonists), the majority of Pierce's attention is appropriately given to Aeriel. We grow to know her and her quiet reserve; even her rare, wry humor. Through her eyes we see the Sea-of-Dust and the plight of the gargoyles during her journeys.

Loose your imagination. This is an elegantly-written book worthy of a read by any high fantasy fan.

I am in love with Ariel, Irrylath, and this brilliant world of fantasy that Ms. Pierce has created. She has such style and an impecable imagination. Her characters are so real that your heart pounds and your brow sweats in anticipation right along with the characters. The gargoyles are the best yet - like big bony, stone dogs - they were my favorites!! I read the book in 2 1/2 days if that tells you what a page turner it is. It really lived up to the excellence of the first book - The Dark Angel. My library carries the first two books of the series but not the final book, so I must wait in anticipation for the final book - The Pearl of the Soul of the World. I'm almost afraid to read the final book simply because I don't want the journey to end!! I will probably end up reading them all over again as soon as I've finished the last one. Applause goes out to Ms. Pierce and her unique imagination!!!!

I had read Pierce's Darkangel Trilogy, and enjoyed it very much, but I didn't check this book out of the library the first time I saw it because I wasn't interested in a book titled "The Woman Who Loved Reindeer." I mean, come on - a woman who loved animals? However, I finally decided to give it a try (I was desparate for reading material). Boy, was I glad I read it. I liked it so much I bought not one, but two copies of the book (because I didn't like the condition of the first one).

This novel is by far my absolute favorite book. It appealed to me because of Pierce's writing style. Without you knowing it, she brings you into the story and into the character's minds and hearts (mostly the main character's, Caribou). I loved the romance - described not graphically, but brough out just as powerfully as if it was. Pierce's use of imagery, and her knack for describing feelings and actions incredibly well using few words, really empowers the storyline. A few small words, in this novel, can reveal to the reader the character's soul. There is really no good way to convey my feelings toward the way this book was written. The plot was engaging, but it was really the author's distinct writing style that made me enjoy this book so much. After all, it is my favorite book (and I've read many books of all different genres, by many excellent authors). I especially recommend this book to people who enjoy reading light romances - not as in comical, but as in more based on emotions than physical actions, if you know what I mean. You'll be able to feel and know the sorrow and love Caribou has for her daimon - a guy named Reindeer (the book wasn't exactly about animals after all ;). In any case, if you read the book - AND YOU WILL - everything will become clear. *A suggestion to the publisher: If you want people to buy your books, give them titles that aren't so misleading, please.* I can't imagine not having read this wonderful, romantic, and adventerous story. Goes to show you can't judge a book by its cover (even though people, including me, does it anyway). This book received my highest recommendation!

This is one of the best books I have ever read (just under Tamora Peirce's books). I read it a while ago, when i was in 5th or 6th grade. Even then i loved it, although it had some parts that i couldn't understand. I read it again recently, and i STILL LOVE IT! you know that a book is awesome if you read it once and then again, a long time later. That means that the book is truly awesome! It is about a girl who falls in love. The one she is in love with, however, is not really human. There is a great story-line, and it all fits together eventually. It is great, and i recommend it to anyone over the age of 11 that is mature. IT RULES!

Now, I must admit I was a little hesitant to read this book just from reading the title. However, I'd read quite a few of Pierce's other novels and loved almost all of them, so I thought reading this one couldn't hurt. I was glad I'd done so. It's an amazing story with some wonderfully different ideas in it. A great deviation from the every-day fantasy you read all the time and I would highly recommend this tale to anyone who likes fantasy and/or a good love story.