Many of these stories are the slice of life type that would not usually appeal to me, but the topics they cover are raw and the characters brilliantly real. Ranging in genre from Slice of Life to Urban to Sci-Fi, this collection is suggested – no, recommended – for those who like good writing.

For me the high spots were the first and last stories. The first is a debate over what to do with a child created as part of an experiment when funding runs out – and they aren’t sure if she is really alive anyway. The last features a brilliant illustrator and her partner hounded by small town America, which is excellently observed. I know people who went through that crap after moving to small towns: lovely area and nice people as long as you toe the line. The author has captured the frustration, helplessness, and anger completely.

The first story is a group debate over the nature of sentience. It’s wonderfully written and with multiple characters each comes across distinctly. Which brings me to the last story in this book, and all I can say is

Breathless.

The last story in this left me breathless. It’s…I…all I can say is just read it.The mechanics of hate are laid out so clearly, yet all these people would say they were good people while doing and supporting the unconscionable.

That poor dog.

5 stars