Jean Rabe and Brian M. Thomsen, Furry Fantastic

Furry Fantastic

Edited by Jean Rabe and Brian M. Thomsen

Daw, Oct 2006, $7.99

ISBN: 0756403812

Before anyone decides this is too cute for fantasy, the editors remind the audience of the works of Beatrix Potter (Peter Rabbit), Richard Adams (Watership Down) and Robert C. O'Brien (Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh). However, the inspiration for the theme comes from Andre Norton's "Cat Fantastic" tales. The eighteen all new stories are fun though mostly lighthearted as the contributors have had a good time writing the tales. The stars range from the normal fur bearers like dogs and cats to the rodent breed like mice, weasels, possums and gerbils; while some of the tales contain supernatural magical creatures who soar in the sky or come back from the dead. In all cases, the headliner battles evil using enchantments and courage to protect loved ones including human pets. Readers of short personification fantasies will appreciate this delightful anthology while those from the WC Fields' thought of never co-starring with animals (natural or paranormal) will pass as humans for the most part play a support part in danger roles.

Harriet Klausner