Part fantasy and part science fiction, the fourth volume in the Guys Read series provides plenty of satisfying glimpses into worlds created by 10 story masters, including Neal Shusterman, D.J. MacHale, Rebecca Stead and Rick Riordan.
While readers may not love all the tales equally, they will be able to sample a little Percy Jackson, fall into a medieval world with Shannon Hale and get their graphic fix from Shaun Tan. This diverse collection also includes three alien stories (by Stead, Eric Nylund and Ray Bradbury) to give an out-of-this-world experience. As in earlier Guys Read collections, readers will find a story by a favorite author or discover a new favorite within the pages. The final entry, "Frost and Fire" by Ray Bradbury, may be familiar to adult readers, but it is sure to be a bridge to his classics for new fans. --Susannah Richards, associate professor, Eastern Connecticut State University