The World's Finest Mystery and Crime Stories: Fifth Annual Collection: Fifth Annual Collection

I actually found a copy of this book on a park bench with a sticky attached that read: "I'm finished, see if you like it and then pass it on." I've heard that there were people who helped spread good books around in such a way but this is my first encounter, so here goes. I am familiar with Ed Gorman's writing and have actually had the pleasure of speaking with him on two occasions and telling him that I am a fan. In this collection he has brought together some great mysteries and I wasn't diappointed. He has great taste and a keen eye for good writers. I am one of those readers who prefer novel lengths (I've even written and published two - neither are mysteries)to the much more difficult art form of the short story (I have also managed to publish a few mystery short stories and know how difficult it can be). So finding a compilation that I enjoy more than only two or three selections is rare. Not so here, every one is a gem and once again I thank Ed for bringing these stories together and want him to know I often look for other titles he has edited because he has yet to disappoint. I would have liked to add this volume to my own library, but yesterday I stuck another sticky on it and left it on the bench in front of the public library in North Adams, Massachusetts - if you hurry....