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Over the past 30 years, Hoffman has received more than 30 nominations for a wide variety of awards; her wins include a Stoker for The Thread That Binds the Bones and a Nebula for “Trophy Wives.” This collection of 16 fantastical stories, drawn from the latter half of her career to date and including one story not previously collected, highlights the talent that makes her a perennial nominee. Of particular note are “The Weight of Wishes,” which both recalls and rises above Jerome Bixby’s horror classic “It’s a Good Life”; “Switched,” a quiet examination of identity; and four Matilda “Matty” Black stories, whose protagonist struggles with issues of friendship and power. Hoffman’s skills shine at short lengths, and this collection of perfect, gemlike stories would complement any library. Agent: Matthew Bialer, Sanford J. Greenburger Associates. (July)