Instead of Three Wishes

Short stories, in my reading experience, are often weak. This collection is full of strong, imaginative, and very enjoyable pieces. (Also contains the best story on bullying I've ever read.)

In this collection of short stories, Turner treats readers to seven magical tales. In "A Plague of Leprechauns," a small town is beset with leprechaun-hunting tourists whenever someone reports seeing one of the little green people. See what happens when a serious young artist arrives in town on the heels of a sighting. "Leroy Roachbane" is a boy who is mysteriously thrown back in time to ancient Sweden. Asked whether he is a spirit or hero, he chooses hero. Soon after his arrival, there is a battle to be fought. The "Factory" is a self-contained community in the middle of an unending city. John, the newest employee, is assigned a job operating a crane far above the factory floor. He soon learns that men rarely stayed in his position due to ghostly happenings. "Aunt Charlotte and the NGA Portraits" is a fanciful tale, told by an old woman to her great-niece, of an adventure inside a painting. "Instead of Three Wishes," Selene wishes to be left alone. The elf prince who promised her the wishes can't understand why she won't accept, so he tries to find ways to make her happy. Kevin, your average school bully, is forced to live with "The Nightmare" after he and his pals try to frighten an old woman. Each night brings more fear until the dream can be overcome. "The Baker King" is about a baker's apprentice who bears a striking resemblance to the late king's son. Will the young man's uncanny appearance help when outsiders threaten to take over the small kingdom? Sometimes funny, sometimes sad, and always fascinating, these stories will intrigue young readers with a taste for the unusual. Each tale is cleverly written and believable in its own way. Some parents may take exception to references to drinking, but it is not a predominant theme and would provide a good talking point between parents and kids later. (i.e.: The difference between social drinking in a local inn versus routine drunkenness.) If your child is too young for Poe but too old for Cinderella, this is a fabulous choice. Reviewed by Christina Wantz Fixemer 8/27/2006

Every single story in this book are filled with excitement and you don't want to put the book down! Each are a surprising magical tale for all ages. One story, a girl goes into a painting to find a treasure for someone. A surprising ending. I can't tell you how good all of the stories are. You have to read them!

I was intruiged by this book because of the especially creative cover, and the marvelous title. I feel that many books must have an intruiging title, and cover, while the reader in the beginning only sees the spine.This book had both. I began reading this short story collection,and was brought back to the edge of my seat with each story. A must-read!