title: The Witch's Vacuum Cleaner and Other Stories
author:  Terry Pratchett 
description: Gr 36A magical vacuum cleaner, a time-traveling television, airships, feuds, wars, scandals, and gnomes are but a few of the magical conundrums and characters in this collection. Each story is well-developed, engaging, and complex. Laced with the humor only Pratchett can deliver, this volume of tales is a great way to remember the late author's writing style. Some of the characters' names, when read aloud, are even good for a laugh. Quirky footnotes, text that pops off the page, and memorable scenes draw readers deep into Pratchett's world. VERDICT This is a must-read for any fantasy, adventure, or Pratchett fanand a great way to introduce his writings to a new generation.Kira Moody, Whitmore Public Library, Salt Lake City
zlib_text: > Inside the Hollow Tree
  
    
  
  > Laurel Veil
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
  
    
  
    
  
    
  
    
  
  This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, and events are the products of
  the author’s imagination.
  
    
  
  No part of this book/eBook may be reproduced or transmitted in any form
  without written permission from the author.
  
    
  
    
  
    
  
    
  
    
  
    
  
    
  
    
  
    
  
    
  
  Copyright © 2018 Laurel Veil
  
    
  
  All rights reserved.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  > For Eric, and to all the times we belonged to ourselves…
  
    
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  > 1.
  
  I moved the vacuum’s attachment back and forth across the step, and with every
  stroke, I thought about how much I hated my life. I was currently living in a
  foster home with a hideous woman and her two teenaged brats. The machine was
  cumbersome, loud, and smelled musty, but at least everyone was leaving me
  alone.
  
  I was about halfway down the staircase when the vacuum suddenly shut off. I
  looked up to see Jacob standing at the head of the stairs with the cord in his
  hand. A menacing grin was on his acne cover