The Emperor of Gondwanaland: And Other Stories

Paul Di Filippo is a talented writer, there is no doubt. This collection is better than the Steampunk Trilogy. I thought that book started out great and finished so-so. The Emperor of Gondwanaland has it's ups and downs, but on a whole, it is wonderful. The variety of stories alone is fantastic. But there are some real winners too, and they left we wanting a full novel version. I admit, I didn't read the story about Robert Frost, the poet story in the Steampunk Trilogy still bugs me and I couldn't bring myself to read it. Here is the best example of this books quality though, I borrowed it from the library, but now I want to buy it! The stories are rich in detail and world building, so rich that I want to read it over and over. It's worth it.

I bought this a year or so ago when it came out and devoured it. I cannot believe no one has reviewed it. There's not a bad story in it. If you like Paul Di Filippo and don't have this book, what are you waiting for??? If you're a Di Filippo novice, this is a great starting place. Unlike his other books, which stick to a theme (renegade biology, steampunkery, odd jobs, etc...) this is a grab bag of treats. SF, fantasy, cyberpunk, alternate history, contemporary magical realism, and the just plain odd all get royal treatment in this book. Get it--you'll not be disappointed!