The Wizards of Odd

"The Wizards of Odd" is a treasure trove for fans of speculative fiction, uniting a constellation of iconic authors in their most delightfully peculiar moods. This inaugural collection is a testament to the genre's capacity for both profound imagination and uproarious laughter, featuring a rare short story from Douglas Adams' beloved *Hitchhiker's Guide* universe, alongside a previously unanthologized gem from the incomparable Terry Pratchett. Prepare for unexpected delights from literary giants like Arthur C. Clarke, Ray Bradbury, Kurt Vonnegut Jr., and Ursula K. Le Guin, among many others, all contributing their unique brand of quirky, comical brilliance. This anthology is a natural fit for any list celebrating the work of Peter Haining, a renowned editor and curator of fantastic fiction. Haining possessed an uncanny knack for unearthing hidden gems and bringing together disparate voices under a unifying, often playful, theme. "The Wizards of Odd" exemplifies his talent for curating collections that surprise and entertain, showcasing beloved authors in less familiar, more whimsical lights. His ability to source and present such a diverse and high-caliber group of authors, particularly including rare and unanthologized pieces, solidifies his legacy as a champion of imaginative storytelling, making this collection a quintessential example of his editorial prowess.