Guys Read: Other Worlds

On content alone, I'd give the anthology 4.5 stars, but I'm knocking off points for labeling a sci-fi/fantasy collection with the gender-specific label of "GUYS Read." Science fiction needs more women, not less.

Most of the stories in this book are excellent. Standouts are Frost and Fire by Rad Bradbury and The Dirt on Our Shoes. There was one story involving cats that didn't stick it's ending, but most of the stories were well written.

Since the series began, I’ve been keeping an eye on the Guys Read books. In theory, it’s a great idea, because more boys should be reading for fun. However, by marketing them as “guy” books, girls are being excluded and it’s continuing the idea that books are gendered. This story is ONLY for girls, and this one is ONLY for boys. As a concept, that needs to die, as it’s based on the sexist values inculcated in our society. They’re clearly making some effort to mold young minds in a good way, based on the inclusion of two female authors and one female MC, but the name itself is still troublesome. Shelving this, though, Guys Read: Other Worlds is a collection of fast-paced stories that will appeal to reluctant young readers, show more of either gender.

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This was one of those novellas that you'll end up just giggling through. I don't mean it as an insult, and if you read Rick Riordin's works you would know that. He's very good at balancing humor and drama. This story is pretty much humor/comedy and well worth the quick read. It has Apollo in it, so what could possibly go wrong? ;) I would recommend this story. 5 out of 5 stars.

This was one of those novellas that you'll end up just giggling through. I don't mean it as an insult, and if you read Rick Riordin's works you would know that. He's very good at balancing humor and drama. This story is pretty much humor/comedy and well worth the quick read. It has Apollo in it, so what could possibly go wrong? ;) I would recommend this story. 5 out of 5 stars.

for the [a:Kenneth Oppel|88922|Kenneth Oppel|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1460937107p2/88922.jpg] story...
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Yup, Oppel's was the best. Imo, there was too much fantasy, given that blurbs etc. emphasized the SF. The humorous ones were fun. Most were worth reading, but a couple were lame. And of course I have trouble with the gendering of the book. Still, I appreciate the existence of the series and hope it encourages more kids to read more.

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This is a very short story that's part of a larger collection of short stories by different authors. It had been quite some time since I last read some Percy Jackson, but I was very glad I did return to the world of the Modern Greek Gods.

The writing and Percy's wit will be exactly what you'd expect after reading the series. My only complaint is the length. It really is too short, Grover birthday is glossed over in this way. It did remind me I should pick up the next series by Rick Riordan!