Two indispensable anthologies These fine annuals are must-have guides to the exploding genres of fantasy and science fiction.

Back in the 1950s, fantasy and science fiction held an unusual distinction: The genre was mature enough for publication of a substantial body of work each year, but still small enough for ambitious readers to plow through almost every important new novel or story. Today we're faced with a mixed blessing. The field has exploded in quantity and quality, but even hardened fans can no longer sift through enough chaff to locate all the golden kernels. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]