Barbara Ninde Byfield (1930–1988)

This is one of the most delightful books I've ever read. A large part of why it succeeds so well is because it is so modest and unambitious. It merely purports to be a guide to the weird, presenting little encapsulations of the weird, fantastic, curious or mythical, in alphabetical order, as if these things were quite natural. There is a humor and charm in the definitions that never fails to delight.

Utterly delightful book originally titled The Glass Harmonica --the original hardcover is better because it gives more scope to the splendid illustrations --but even the paperback is worth it. It is an alphabetical list of items from fantasy and/or romantic adventure fiction. There are occasional slightly jarring modern notes --that elves like popovers and Chateau d'Yquem, for instance -- but most of it is a distillation of the essence of enjoyable fantasy and adventure, retold with wit and show more a knowledgeable air. Some is premodern --a good article on castles, for instance --other bits are as late as regency. but somehow it flows together seamlessly.. show less

This is a cute story of a very weary cable car that climbs the hills of San Francisco, then is propelled around and a downward journey occurs. In this story, the cable car is 60 years old and his name is Charlie.

On a magical night, Charlie climbs Nob hill. And instead of taking his usual route, he heads to Chinese New Year by taking a right turn on Jackson Street.

He befriends the dragon who is the center of attention. Soon Chu and Charlie take a marvelous journey.

Delightful, filled with fun, show more this is a book most children (and adults) will enjoy. show less

A most delightful compendium of matters relating to the whimsical side of the fantastic genre. The illustrations are excellent, the prose lively. I'm sure this book is somehow connected to the mind of Terry Pratchett in his best days.