An ultimately forgettable collection, this book is saved only by the novella ("Hoag") and the last short story ("Crooked House"). "Hoag" is noteworthy for an eerie and mysterious buildup; unfortunately, it is equally noteworthy for an out-of-the-blue, hokey spiritual ending. "Crooked House," on the other hand, is fantastic throughout--an architect builds a four-dimensional house, and mayhem ensues when he gives a tour to its prospective owners. One of the finest--and funniest--stories about multiple dimensions, this last story is a personal favorite of mine.

Copyright © 2001 Steven Wu