Dream worlds, otherworlds and dream cities

One of the things that has always drawn me to particular books is the inclusion of an otherworld – a world or city beyond this one, behind this one.

I’m not talking about the standard portal fantasy. I am drawn to books which are set firmly in this world, which feel real.

Two examples that spring to mind also include some of my ultimate favourite books and two of my favourite authors.

First is Catherynne M. Valente’s recently Hugo-nominated Palimpsest.

Second are Charles de Lint’s Newford books, many of which feature an otherworld which includes the dream-created city of Mabon.

These are part of the inspiration for my own dream city, Never.

I’m wondering if there are other books featuring otherworlds along the lines of these that I should also be reading.

Mirrored from Stephanie Gunn.

Australian Shadows Awards winners announced

The Australian Shadows Awards winners have been announced.

The winners are:

Long fiction:
Slights by Kaaron Warren.

Edited Publication:
Grants Pass, edited by Jennifer Brozek and Amanda Pillar.

Short fiction:
Six Suicides by Deborah Biancotti.

You can also read the judge’s reports, mine included, at the link above.

I am extremely pleased with the winners. It was really, really hard for me to narrow down a shortlist out of the many entries we received, though thankfully it was extremely painless for us as judges to agree on a final shortlist. It was a great year for dark Australian fiction, and gives me great hope as for the future of said fiction here.

I’m especially chuffed at Grants Pass winning, since I have a story in it (which obviously, wasn’t eligible).

Mirrored from Stephanie Gunn.