Widely and consistently praised for collecting the finest works of fantastic fiction from a diverse array of sources, this annual anthology continues its tradition of excellence with four dozen gems. The fiction and poetry assembled here range from sprightly fairy tales to gothic horror stories, from magical realist fantasias to dark tales in the Grand Guignol style. Rounding out the volume are the editors' invaluable overviews of the year in fantastic fiction and a long list of Honorable Mentions, making this book an excellent reference source as well as the best reading available in fantasy and horror.