From the author of Fantastica: Fantastica - Surreal Prose & Poetry is a guide to Fantastica, one of the most mystical and mysterious places on Earth. It is the nearest place to Fairyland and there is an immense number of magical and paranormal folk who reside here. You will find stories, poems, interviews and information created by Fantastica residents and visitors from other places and countries designed to inspire you.

Fantastica is a beautiful collection of writings that offer glimpses into a magical world where humans live alongside imaginary creatures. Although it is not a single narrative with typical characters and a plot, it is a pleasure to read and stimulates the imagination! (This review is structured somewhat differently than my usual reviews because Fantastica is not a novel. I would like to mention how lovely the book cover is, though! The pink flowers are especially gorgeous.)

Reading the introduction is essential if you want to fully appreciate the journey you’re about to embark upon! Each chapter in Fantastica starts with a short introduction of the writer, giving the reader a hint of the variety of creatures that call Fantastica their home. I liked how “modern” ideas are present in these selections, too; unlike so many fantasy settings, Fantastica is not strictly a medieval land. Also, the notion that people can move back and forth between our world and Fantastica is intriguing.

I would like to point out two of my favorite stories in Fantastica. The first is titled “The Waterfall Picture” and tells about a picture that comes to life and facilitates travel to different worlds. This idea opens up so many possibilities! Also, the descriptions of the waterfall and its surroundings are beautiful. The second is titled “Presents for my Friends’ Birthdays.” It is a poem about the gifts a girl buys for her friends at school—not ordinary gifts, but remarkable gifts that you would expect from a place like Fanastica! The first letter of each gift corresponds to the first letter of each friend’s name.

Fantastica is an enjoyable read that evokes a world of color and mystery. The writing is clear with a unique voice. If you feel the need to step into a fascinating new place where possibilities abound, I recommend that you read Fantastica.

FTC Disclosure: I received a free copy of the book reviewed above.

Andrea Lightfoot is the author of Fantastica. You can connect with her on Twitter or learn more about her and her writing on Goodreads.

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