Breeds

[threemonkeys]

I read the third volume of Year's Best Australian Science Fiction & Fantasy edited by Bill Congreve & Michelle Marquardt. I was curious to see how knowing the editors changes how I react to a book. See I hadn't met either Bill or Michelle before I read the first one. I'd met Bill and briefly discussed his editing philosophy before reading the second one. But between then and now I've had number of conversations (and a few drinks) with both Bill & Michelle and I'd read fiction written by both of them. Would it change my opinion of the work?

But there was a problem. Turns out I have read most of the stories before. That colours opinions much more than knowing the editors. Still I was able to nod and smile and say - "oh yes I can see why they like this one" a lot. Actually I liked most of them too. But it probably wasn't exactly the same set that I would have chosen and even if I had picked exactly the same ones I wouldn't have put them in the same order. But that's what personal taste will do for you.

Comments

[markdeniz.livejournal.com]

I'm on the second one at the moment (trying to catch up) and already finding stuff I've read within.

Good stuff though - they're keeping me focused on Aussie lit!

(they're probably in that icon too!)

[threemonkeys.livejournal.com]

I think that is volume 3 on the right hand edge. Actually, I recognise an awful lot of those covers.

[markdeniz.livejournal.com]

Thought you might, for that is my Conflux 4 pile...

[threemonkeys.livejournal.com]

Ah, that reminds me, I meant to ask if any of your titles (apart from In Bad Dreams of course)will be available at Conflux 5. I'm planning to put off as much of my purchasing until then as possible.

[markdeniz.livejournal.com]

Well actually I have nothing to do with the second In Bad Dreams release (apart from selecting the stories) and would recommend you to check out the Morrigan Books (http://www.morriganbooks.com) table where we will be launching Voices (with your name inside).

Thing is you're not allowed to buy one of those but there is a good reason why!

[threemonkeys.livejournal.com]

I certainly shall be giving my attention to a Morrigan Books page. As for the rest, well, I shall wait and see with growing interest.