title: Death and the Librarian and Other Stories (Five Star First Edition Science Fiction and Fantasy Series)
author: Esther Friesner
description: From a darkly humorous tale of the power of words ("Death and the Librarian") to a never-before-published response to the events of September 11 ("Ilion"), Friesner's 12 stories illustrate the author's acutely sensitive vision of wonder in the everyday world. Often cloaked in humor, these tales always provide keen insights using sf and fantasy as vehicles. Known primarily for his "Star Wars" novels, including Heir to the Empire, Zahn's short stories also deliver strong plots and memorable characters. Beginning with a tale of interstellar war against a hive-mind ("Point Man") and ending with a novella that combines space travel and music in a unique and surprising fashion, Star Song's six pieces illuminate the author's versatility and eclectic tastes. Zebrowski's many novels (e.g., Macrolife) mark him as a visionary as well as a master of hard sf. The ten short stories collected in In the Distance provide a benchmark of his creativity. From tales of the near future ("The Water Sculptor") to those of the far future ("Between the Winds"), the author expands his concept of the human condition to embrace the stars. Part of Five Star's continuing commitment to showcasing the short fiction of the genre's most prominent authors, these three volumes belong in most libraries where short sf is popular. <BR>Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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  **Invasion of the Alien Snatchers**
  
  
  A Nocturne Falls Universe Story
  
  
    
  
  
    
  
  
  **Fiona Roarke**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
  
  
  Dear Reader,
  
  
    
  
  
  Nocturne Falls has become a magical place for so many people, myself included.
  Over and over I’ve heard from you that it’s a town you’d love to visit and
  even live in! I can tell you that writing the books is just as much fun for
  me.
  
  
  With your enthusiasm for the series in mindand your many requests for more
  booksthe Nocturne Falls Universe was born. It’s a project near and dear to my
  heart, and one I am very excited about.
  
  
  I hope these new, guest-authored books will entertain and delight you. And
  best of all, I hope they allow you to discover some great new authors! (And if
  you like this book, be sure to check out the rest of the Nocturne Falls
  Universe offerings.)
  
  
  For more information about the Nocturne Falls Universe, visit
  <http://kristenpainter.com/sugar-skull-books/>
  
  
    
  
  
  In the meantime, happy reading!
  
  
  Krist