Status
Available
Call number
Genres
Collection
Publication
Ace (2018), 448 pages
Description
Fantasy. Fiction. Short Stories. HTML:An all-new Dresden Files story headlines this urban fantasy short story collection starring the Windy City's favorite wizard. The world of Harry Dresden, Chicago's only professional wizard, is rife with intrigue�??and creatures of all supernatural stripes. And you'll make their intimate acquaintance as Harry delves into the dark side of truth, justice, and the American way in this must-have short story collection. From the Wild West to the bleachers at Wrigley Field, humans, zombies, incubi, and even fey royalty appear, ready to blur the line between friend and foe. In the never-before-published "Zoo Day," Harry treads new ground as a dad, while fan-favorite characters Molly Carpenter, his onetime apprentice, White Council Warden Anastasia Luccio, and even Bigfoot stalk through the pages of more classic tales. With twelve stories in all, Brief Cases offers both longtime fans and first-time readers tantalizing glimpses into Harry's funny, gritty, and unforgettable realm, whetting their appetites for more to come from the wizard with a heart of gold. Collection includes: A FISTFUL OF WARLOCKS (from Straight Outta Tombstone, edited by David Boon), read by Cassandra Campbell B IS FOR BIGFOOT (from Under My Hat: Tales from the Cauldron, edited by Jonathan Strahan), read by James Marsters AAAA WIZARDRY (from the Dresden Files RPG), read by James Marsters I WAS A TEENAGE BIGFOOT (from Blood Lite 3: Aftertaste, edited by Kevin J. Anderson), read by James Marsters CURSES (from The Naked City, edited by Ellen Datlow), read by James Marsters EVEN HAND (from Dark and Stormy Knights, edited by P. N. Elrodread), read by Jim Butcher BIGFOOT ON CAMPUS (from Hex Appeal, edited by P. N. Elrod), read by James Marsters BOMBSHELLS (from Dangerous Women, edited by George R. R. Martin and Gardner Dozois), read by Julia Whelan COLD CASE (from Shadowed Souls, edited by Jim Butcher and Kerrie Hughes), read by Julia Whelan JURY DUTY (from Unbound, edited by Shawn Speakman), read by James Marsters DAY ONE (from Unfettered II, edited by Shawn Speakman), read by Oliver Wyman ZOO DAY (original), read by James Marsters *The author�??s note that precede each story will be read by the author… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member Darcia
Each of the stories in this collection is preceded by a brief explanation of the story's origin, as well as it's approximate placement within the ongoing series. That being said, it's absolutely not necessary to have read any of the books in the series to enjoy these stories.
All the stories are
What I liked:
Jim Butcher has an engaging writing style that immediately draws you into the characters' world.
Each story has a good mix of humor and mystery. Some lean more into fantasy than others, but all of them feel plausible, in a weird sorta way. I mean, seriously, I know it's unlikely that Bigfoot has a son in college, but, hey, anything's possible!
I really like Harry's character. He's a cool combination of superhero, magician, and detective.
What I didn't like so much:
After a while, the stories began feeling a little too formulaic and predictable.
I didn't like the way female characters were portrayed. They're all some combination of drop dead gorgeous, sex-crazed, and ditzy. They felt like caricatures, and I just couldn't take any of them seriously. The one exception of note is Gard, who is beautiful but also a total badass. I would have liked less male fantasy and more reality in the female cast.
*The publisher provided me with an advance ebook copy, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.*
All the stories are
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written in first person. Most are from Harry Dresden's perspective, though some are from other characters within the series. What I liked:
Jim Butcher has an engaging writing style that immediately draws you into the characters' world.
Each story has a good mix of humor and mystery. Some lean more into fantasy than others, but all of them feel plausible, in a weird sorta way. I mean, seriously, I know it's unlikely that Bigfoot has a son in college, but, hey, anything's possible!
I really like Harry's character. He's a cool combination of superhero, magician, and detective.
What I didn't like so much:
After a while, the stories began feeling a little too formulaic and predictable.
I didn't like the way female characters were portrayed. They're all some combination of drop dead gorgeous, sex-crazed, and ditzy. They felt like caricatures, and I just couldn't take any of them seriously. The one exception of note is Gard, who is beautiful but also a total badass. I would have liked less male fantasy and more reality in the female cast.
*The publisher provided me with an advance ebook copy, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.*
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LibraryThing member krau0098
This is a collection of twelve short stories featuring characters from the Dresden Files series. As with most anthologies the quality of the stories varies. The majority of these stories have appeared before in other anthologies, only the last story in this anthology is original to this collection.
My favorite stories of the bunch were the ones featuring Bigfoot and his son Irwin; I especially enjoyed “Bigfoot on Campus”. I also really enjoyed “Cold Case” which takes a look at Molly starting her duties as the Winter Queen.
This is a decent collection of Dresden stories (especially if you don’t keep up with all the short stories released in this universe). It was nice to get a dose of the Dresden Files while we suffer through this long drought between Dresden Files’ books.
Overall a good collection of stories and a “must read” if you don’t normally keep up with the Dresden Files short stories. Recommended for fans of the series; most of these don’t stand alone very well. See below for short descriptions and ratings for the individual stories.
"A Fistful of Warlocks" (4/5 stars)
Story featuring Anastasia Luccio, set in the Wild West. She ends up working with Wyatt Earp to fight a group of warlocks that are causing trouble in the region.
“B Is for Bigfoot”, Jim Butcher (4/5 stars)
This is a short Harry Dresden story in which Dresden is asked to help a half-Yeti boy deal with bullies. It wasn’t all that exciting but was decently written and I enjoyed it.
“AAAA Wizardry” (5/5 stars)
I really enjoyed this story. In it Dresden is teaching some new Wardens about investigation as a wizard. He jumps between teaching a class and telling a story about a time things went wrong for him because he didn’t look at the situation correctly. Very well done story.
"I was a Teenage Bigfoot" (4/5 stars)
Dresden goes to check on a teenage bigfoot who supposedly has mono; however something much more sinistar is going on. I ended liking this story a lot. It was a fun read and features the same kid as “B is for Bigfoot” did.
"Curses" (4/5 stars)
This was a fun story about Dresden tracking down a fae king who cursed the home plate at Wrigley stadium so that the Cubs never win. It was an entertaining read.
“Even Hand” (4/5 stars)
A story from John Marcone’s point of view. It was interesting to gain some insight into Marcone. The story was entertaining but over-all nothing mind-blowing.
"Bigfoot on Campus" (5/5 stars)
Irwin is at college now. When his dad (Bigfoot) senses that something bad is going to happen, he hires Harry to go and check on Irwin. What Harry find involves the White Court and ends up in an epic battle involving Bigfoot, ghouls, and vampires. This was an excellent story I was completely drawn and want to read about Irwin more now!
"Bombshells" (4/5 stars)
This story followed Molly as she tried to deal with some Formar. There was a lot of action in here and it was good to see how Molly fared while Harry was “dead”. I didn’t really like Molly’s “voice” that much and it was hard for me to really engage in this story, it was really dark.
"Cold Case" (5/5 stars)
This was an amazing story that feature Molly as she starts her duties as the Winter Queen. She is there to collect tribut but finds out that something is going very wrong in this town. She ends up meeting up with Carlos who helps her unravel the strange events. During the course of events Molly finds out some truly dreadful facts about what it means to be Winter Queen. This was an awesome story, a bit dark and serious but really engaging and interesting
"Jury Duty" (3/5 stars)
Super light and fluffy story about Dresden being called to jury duty. He ends up using his investigative skills to keep the defendant from going to jail. It was okay but my least favorite of the bunch so far.
"Day One" (4/5 stars)
This was a cute story about Butters and his first “call” to action as a Knight. It was well done and a fun read.
"Zoo Day" (4/5 stars)
This was the same story told three times from three different POVs (Harry’s, Maggies, and Mouse’s). I liked seeing Harry cope with being a father and seeing Maggie’s and Mouse’s thoughts were interesting. However, I am not a huge fan of this type of thing....it ends up being pretty boring reading the same thing three times.
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I had read a number of these stories previously in other UF short story collections.My favorite stories of the bunch were the ones featuring Bigfoot and his son Irwin; I especially enjoyed “Bigfoot on Campus”. I also really enjoyed “Cold Case” which takes a look at Molly starting her duties as the Winter Queen.
This is a decent collection of Dresden stories (especially if you don’t keep up with all the short stories released in this universe). It was nice to get a dose of the Dresden Files while we suffer through this long drought between Dresden Files’ books.
Overall a good collection of stories and a “must read” if you don’t normally keep up with the Dresden Files short stories. Recommended for fans of the series; most of these don’t stand alone very well. See below for short descriptions and ratings for the individual stories.
"A Fistful of Warlocks" (4/5 stars)
Story featuring Anastasia Luccio, set in the Wild West. She ends up working with Wyatt Earp to fight a group of warlocks that are causing trouble in the region.
“B Is for Bigfoot”, Jim Butcher (4/5 stars)
This is a short Harry Dresden story in which Dresden is asked to help a half-Yeti boy deal with bullies. It wasn’t all that exciting but was decently written and I enjoyed it.
“AAAA Wizardry” (5/5 stars)
I really enjoyed this story. In it Dresden is teaching some new Wardens about investigation as a wizard. He jumps between teaching a class and telling a story about a time things went wrong for him because he didn’t look at the situation correctly. Very well done story.
"I was a Teenage Bigfoot" (4/5 stars)
Dresden goes to check on a teenage bigfoot who supposedly has mono; however something much more sinistar is going on. I ended liking this story a lot. It was a fun read and features the same kid as “B is for Bigfoot” did.
"Curses" (4/5 stars)
This was a fun story about Dresden tracking down a fae king who cursed the home plate at Wrigley stadium so that the Cubs never win. It was an entertaining read.
“Even Hand” (4/5 stars)
A story from John Marcone’s point of view. It was interesting to gain some insight into Marcone. The story was entertaining but over-all nothing mind-blowing.
"Bigfoot on Campus" (5/5 stars)
Irwin is at college now. When his dad (Bigfoot) senses that something bad is going to happen, he hires Harry to go and check on Irwin. What Harry find involves the White Court and ends up in an epic battle involving Bigfoot, ghouls, and vampires. This was an excellent story I was completely drawn and want to read about Irwin more now!
"Bombshells" (4/5 stars)
This story followed Molly as she tried to deal with some Formar. There was a lot of action in here and it was good to see how Molly fared while Harry was “dead”. I didn’t really like Molly’s “voice” that much and it was hard for me to really engage in this story, it was really dark.
"Cold Case" (5/5 stars)
This was an amazing story that feature Molly as she starts her duties as the Winter Queen. She is there to collect tribut but finds out that something is going very wrong in this town. She ends up meeting up with Carlos who helps her unravel the strange events. During the course of events Molly finds out some truly dreadful facts about what it means to be Winter Queen. This was an awesome story, a bit dark and serious but really engaging and interesting
"Jury Duty" (3/5 stars)
Super light and fluffy story about Dresden being called to jury duty. He ends up using his investigative skills to keep the defendant from going to jail. It was okay but my least favorite of the bunch so far.
"Day One" (4/5 stars)
This was a cute story about Butters and his first “call” to action as a Knight. It was well done and a fun read.
"Zoo Day" (4/5 stars)
This was the same story told three times from three different POVs (Harry’s, Maggies, and Mouse’s). I liked seeing Harry cope with being a father and seeing Maggie’s and Mouse’s thoughts were interesting. However, I am not a huge fan of this type of thing....it ends up being pretty boring reading the same thing three times.
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LibraryThing member Carolesrandomlife
I had a great time with this book. I knew that this was going to be a book that I would need to read as soon as I saw it. I have been a fan of The Dresden Files for quite some time so spending a bit of time with Harry Dresden and company was something that I was quite eager to do. I went into this
Of the 12 stories included in this collection, 11 have been previously published. I was lucky enough to have missed all but one of the stories so almost everything was new to me. The one story that I had read previously was one that I really enjoyed the first time so I decided to go ahead and read it again and ended up enjoying it just as much the second time around.
I loved how varied and original each of the stories were while giving me the taste of much loved series that I was looking for. Some of the stories feature Harry as the lead character but we do get the chance to see other characters take that role including Molly, Butters, Maggie and Mouse, and Warden Luccio. I loved getting the chance to see these other characters take the lead and enjoyed spending a moment hearing some of their thoughts.
When I pick up a collection of stories, I have discovered that I will probably like some of the stories more than others. I usually come across a few that I don't really care for as well but that didn't happen with this book. I really liked all of the stories pretty equally and can honestly say that every story in the group is solid and if rated individually, I would give them all either 4 or 5 stars.
I would highly recommend this book to others. These stories take place at various spots within the series but I think readers new to the series would appreciate this book. Fans that are up to date with the series will enjoy seeing favorite characters as we remember them. I can't wait to read more from this amazing series!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley.
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book with pretty high expectations simply because I have come to expect great things from this series. I am happy to say that this book met every one of those expectations.Of the 12 stories included in this collection, 11 have been previously published. I was lucky enough to have missed all but one of the stories so almost everything was new to me. The one story that I had read previously was one that I really enjoyed the first time so I decided to go ahead and read it again and ended up enjoying it just as much the second time around.
I loved how varied and original each of the stories were while giving me the taste of much loved series that I was looking for. Some of the stories feature Harry as the lead character but we do get the chance to see other characters take that role including Molly, Butters, Maggie and Mouse, and Warden Luccio. I loved getting the chance to see these other characters take the lead and enjoyed spending a moment hearing some of their thoughts.
When I pick up a collection of stories, I have discovered that I will probably like some of the stories more than others. I usually come across a few that I don't really care for as well but that didn't happen with this book. I really liked all of the stories pretty equally and can honestly say that every story in the group is solid and if rated individually, I would give them all either 4 or 5 stars.
I would highly recommend this book to others. These stories take place at various spots within the series but I think readers new to the series would appreciate this book. Fans that are up to date with the series will enjoy seeing favorite characters as we remember them. I can't wait to read more from this amazing series!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley.
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LibraryThing member phoenixcomet
I've listened to a few Dresden Files books on audio a number of years ago and enjoyed them. This compendium of short stories featured Harry and some of his compatriots in various scenarios. Quick and easy to read, the characters of Harry's world are quirky, charming and engaging. I liked that the
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stories were short and quickly read. Show Less
LibraryThing member rivkat
Dresden Files short stories, some of them starring non-Harry POV characters. The best was a story about Molly’s new job as the Winter princess/enforcer and the new abilities she was learning to navigate; the silliest was a Rashomon-like trip to the zoo in which Harry, his ten-year-old daughter,
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and his foo dog each had their own battles to fight, only somewhat perceived by each other. Show Less
LibraryThing member quondame
Interesting glimpses into the world of Harry Dresden Chicago's wizard. Many feature character's other than Harry, as Molly goes out on her own in several, one features John Marcone and another Waldo Butters. Molly gets a pretty bum deal, while Harry gets quality, if interrupted, time with his
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daughter, Maggie. Show Less
LibraryThing member dswaddell
A really interesting of short stories set in various times in the Harry Dresden universe. Fun additions to the story.
LibraryThing member majackson
12 stories, only 7 of which actually involve--much less star--Harry. The other stories feature formerly bit characters and show us how they are struggling to grow into the new roles that have been thrust upon them since meeting Harry: Butters, Molly, Maggie, Marcone, Mouse. Be aware, though, that
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most of these stories make references to things that have happened in the novels and may serve as spoilers if you've not already read ALL of them. Since I've read all of the books in sequence I was able to decipher the cryptic references to items like "The Outsiders" and my knowledge helped me understand some of the context and rationale for various actions and events. Additionally are included the 3 Bigfoot stories. There are fewer pyrotechnics--at least on Harry's part--and more thoughtfulness. In summary, if you've enjoyed the novels then you'll definitely want to read this book. Show Less
LibraryThing member ouroborosangel
Brief Cases is a book of short stories from the POVs of Harry Dresden, Molly and Warden Luccio. If you don't know who any of these people are, skip this book for now and IMMEDIATELY start with the first book in the series, Storm Front. Then come back to this one. If you are a fan of this series
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already, then this will be entirely sufficient to tide you over until the next full-length addition to the Wizard Dresden adventures comes out. Show Less
LibraryThing member 2wonderY
A good collection. I was glad to have access to all three Bigfoot stories in one place.
I think ‘Jury Duty’ is a favorite.
I think ‘Jury Duty’ is a favorite.
LibraryThing member AHS-Wolfy
The 2nd collection of short stories set in the Dresden Files universe of which only one hasn’t previously appeared elsewhere in other anthologies. There’s a slight departure from he norm as instead of the usual Harry Dresden perspective throughout we get some other viewpoints on a few of the featuring Molly & Butters’ first experiences of their new roles .
I’ve never been a huge fan of short stories but this was a nice diversion while we wait for the next full instalment in the series. They do actually help fill in a few gaps and provide some new perspectives. Just a shame there’s no Murphy or Thomas along for any of these except for a brief cameo for the latter but I guess we can’t have everything. While there’s nothing exceptional here it’s still a good companion piece to the series and I will be happy to include it when I do my next re-read of the series.
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tales with Anastasia Luccio, Molly (twice), John Marcone & Waldo Butters all featured and the final tale has 3 (Harry, Maggie & Mouse). All of the stories get a brief introduction for the setting and how/why it came to be created and where it fits in with the main Dresden series (if it matters). Most of them are set between the latter books of the series so if you’re not up to date then some of the references may not ring a bell but I think only one or two have any real spoilers if you’re not, I’ve never been a huge fan of short stories but this was a nice diversion while we wait for the next full instalment in the series. They do actually help fill in a few gaps and provide some new perspectives. Just a shame there’s no Murphy or Thomas along for any of these except for a brief cameo for the latter but I guess we can’t have everything. While there’s nothing exceptional here it’s still a good companion piece to the series and I will be happy to include it when I do my next re-read of the series.
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LibraryThing member MontzaleeW
Brief Cases (The Dresden Files #15.1) by Jim Butcher is a book I requested from NetGalley and the review is voluntary. I have loved his books even before he had the TV show. I love the imagination, creativity, and the humor. This book is another one of those books! Several short stories creative
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characters and plots that kept me interested from beginning to the end. They also have just enough snark and wit! There were several stories about Bigfoot and a really great one about Dodge City and Mr. Earp. But in that last story there were wizards and strange creatures to ride on that did not sound like horses! That was my favorite. A fun read. Show Less
LibraryThing member bgknighton
A good introduction to the world of Dresden. Enjoyable.
LibraryThing member Glennis.LeBlanc
This is a collection of short stories that have been previously published in various places with one new short story at the end of the book. It was nice to reread some of these stories and see the introductions explaining where they fell in the series or why they were written. I had read most but
Digital review copy provided by the publisher through NetGalley
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not all of the reprints since some were either in small press publications or RPG books. A great collection for any fan of the Dresden Files and nice to see the story universe with other characters getting a turn as narrator. The last story is the new one and the furthest in the timeline of the series. So nice to see Harry, Maggie and Mouse all together in one story. Digital review copy provided by the publisher through NetGalley
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LibraryThing member MrsLee
If you are a fan of the Dresden Files, then by no means should you miss this book. It is a collection of short stories featuring many of the characters in Dresden's world, along with Harry himself in a few. Of the whole collection, I had only read one before, but that may be because I don't buy all
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the mixed author fantasy anthologies that come out. Jim Butcher does the short story well. Each one feels complete, and yet connected to the world. Show Less
LibraryThing member JalenV
Brief Cases is the second short story collection in The Dresden Files.
1. 'A Fistful of Warlocks'**** is set in Dodge City, Kansas, during the 19th century. Wyatt Earp is a supporting character. This is not a time travel story, so Harry Dresden does not appear. At this point, Ebenezar McCoy is
Our protagonist is the woman who will one day be the Wardens' Captain: Anastasia Luccio. She's hunting for a murderer, the Warlock Alexander Page. We are told about part of what he did to his three victims. It was bad enough that I'm glad the rest was left out. Her magnificent white horse is really a näcken named Karl. (Karl lost a wager with Anastasia.)
Warden Luccio meets Wyatt Earp at the Long Branch Dance Hall and Saloon, which is a real place. There she finds Page, who is hanging out with other warlocks. Oops.
Remember Grevane from Dead Beat, book seven in the Dresden Files? He's here as Heinrich Kemmler's apprentice. (No, Bob the skull doesn't appear.) Let's just say that he, his fellow sorcerers, and his mentor are making things tough for Luccio. There's a good supernatural fight scene, at the end of which some characters should have gotten out of Dodge while they had the chance.
Horse fans: You probably wouldn't want to ride him in his proper form, but do enjoy Karl in his disguise.
2. 'B is for Bigfoot' **** has wizard Harry Dresden being hired to help out Irwin Pounder, son of Dr. Helena Pounder by a Sasquatch named Strength of a River in His Shoulders, or River Shoulders for short. That makes him a scion in this series (half-human, half-supernatural being). Irwin is very intelligent, a book loving nerd. He attends Madison Academy, a private elementary and middle school in Chicago. Dr. Pounder suspects her son is being bullied. She can't pick him up on a certain day, so Harry gets to go undercover as a substitute janitor (Hi, Norm!) to keep an eye on Irwin.
Dr. Pounder is correct. Two boys are picking on Irwin. Unfortunately, Coach Pete has it out for Irwin as well. The more Harry learns about Coach Pete, the more dangerous this assignment seems. How can Harry help Irwin and stay alive?
Notes:
a. Irwin is reading Douglas Adams' Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. Harry makes some good quips using the book. I also loved his snark about broccoli, which I can stand when it's raw, but I HATE it cooked.
b. According to the author's introduction, this takes place between book two, Fool Moon, and book three, Grave Peril.
3. 'AAAA Wizardry,'***½ According to Jim Butcher's introduction, this story takes place shortly after The Dresden Files book eight, Proven Guilty.
The framing sequence is Harry Dresden teaching a class on independent investigation of supernatural threats to young Wardens of the White Council. Only two of them are named: a Russian woman named Illyana and a Canadian man named McKenzie. The four 'As' are 'ascertain,' 'analysis,' 'assemble,' and 'act'. A fifth one is mentioned after the sample case is recounted. Considering his own brother has applied the term to Harry, you might be able to guess that that fifth 'A'.
The sample case involves the Paranet: humans with enough magical talent to attract supernatural predators, but not enough to join the White Council. They're an expansion of Ordo Lebes, a group that appeared in The Dresden Files book nine, White Night. They had their current name by book 10, Small Favor.
The Paranet member requesting help this time is Megan Yardley, a single mother living in a place that really exists - Peculiar, Missouri. Megan has three children: Kat, who is 12, Joey, who appears to be 8, and 4-year-old Tamara. (Harry had to estimate Joey's age because Megan didn't mention it. She's been worried about the young Misses Yardley.) The fifth Yardley we meet is Megan's brother, Detective Inspector Ben Yardley. He doesn't believe in magic, but he does believe in his sister. He also has his gun with him. How nice.
It's not long after Megan is able to tell Ben that (contrary to the opinion of the Chicago police), Harry is the real deal that Harry and Ben get an example of what has Megan worried. Harry quickly figures out what's wrong and comes up with a solution. It doesn't go according to plan.
Note: Dresden burned his left hand in book six, Blood Rites. What he doesn't tell the class is that if he'd been a plain vanilla human, that hand would have been amputated. Let's hear it for wizard healing powers! They're slower than X-Man Wolverine's healing factor, but I'd love to have them.
1. 'A Fistful of Warlocks'**** is set in Dodge City, Kansas, during the 19th century. Wyatt Earp is a supporting character. This is not a time travel story, so Harry Dresden does not appear. At this point, Ebenezar McCoy is
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Captain of the Wardens of the White Council. It's not stated whether or not he is already the Blackstaff. (He doesn't appear in the story, he's just mentioned.)Our protagonist is the woman who will one day be the Wardens' Captain: Anastasia Luccio. She's hunting for a murderer, the Warlock Alexander Page. We are told about part of what he did to his three victims. It was bad enough that I'm glad the rest was left out. Her magnificent white horse is really a näcken named Karl. (Karl lost a wager with Anastasia.)
Warden Luccio meets Wyatt Earp at the Long Branch Dance Hall and Saloon, which is a real place. There she finds Page, who is hanging out with other warlocks. Oops.
Remember Grevane from Dead Beat, book seven in the Dresden Files? He's here as Heinrich Kemmler's apprentice. (No, Bob the skull doesn't appear.) Let's just say that he, his fellow sorcerers, and his mentor are making things tough for Luccio. There's a good supernatural fight scene, at the end of which some characters should have gotten out of Dodge while they had the chance.
Horse fans: You probably wouldn't want to ride him in his proper form, but do enjoy Karl in his disguise.
2. 'B is for Bigfoot' **** has wizard Harry Dresden being hired to help out Irwin Pounder, son of Dr. Helena Pounder by a Sasquatch named Strength of a River in His Shoulders, or River Shoulders for short. That makes him a scion in this series (half-human, half-supernatural being). Irwin is very intelligent, a book loving nerd. He attends Madison Academy, a private elementary and middle school in Chicago. Dr. Pounder suspects her son is being bullied. She can't pick him up on a certain day, so Harry gets to go undercover as a substitute janitor (Hi, Norm!) to keep an eye on Irwin.
Dr. Pounder is correct. Two boys are picking on Irwin. Unfortunately, Coach Pete has it out for Irwin as well. The more Harry learns about Coach Pete, the more dangerous this assignment seems. How can Harry help Irwin and stay alive?
Notes:
a. Irwin is reading Douglas Adams' Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. Harry makes some good quips using the book. I also loved his snark about broccoli, which I can stand when it's raw, but I HATE it cooked.
b. According to the author's introduction, this takes place between book two, Fool Moon, and book three, Grave Peril.
3. 'AAAA Wizardry,'***½ According to Jim Butcher's introduction, this story takes place shortly after The Dresden Files book eight, Proven Guilty.
The framing sequence is Harry Dresden teaching a class on independent investigation of supernatural threats to young Wardens of the White Council. Only two of them are named: a Russian woman named Illyana and a Canadian man named McKenzie. The four 'As' are 'ascertain,' 'analysis,' 'assemble,' and 'act'. A fifth one is mentioned after the sample case is recounted. Considering his own brother has applied the term to Harry, you might be able to guess that that fifth 'A'.
The sample case involves the Paranet: humans with enough magical talent to attract supernatural predators, but not enough to join the White Council. They're an expansion of Ordo Lebes, a group that appeared in The Dresden Files book nine, White Night. They had their current name by book 10, Small Favor.
The Paranet member requesting help this time is Megan Yardley, a single mother living in a place that really exists - Peculiar, Missouri. Megan has three children: Kat, who is 12, Joey, who appears to be 8, and 4-year-old Tamara. (Harry had to estimate Joey's age because Megan didn't mention it. She's been worried about the young Misses Yardley.) The fifth Yardley we meet is Megan's brother, Detective Inspector Ben Yardley. He doesn't believe in magic, but he does believe in his sister. He also has his gun with him. How nice.
It's not long after Megan is able to tell Ben that (contrary to the opinion of the Chicago police), Harry is the real deal that Harry and Ben get an example of what has Megan worried. Harry quickly figures out what's wrong and comes up with a solution. It doesn't go according to plan.
Note: Dresden burned his left hand in book six, Blood Rites. What he doesn't tell the class is that if he'd been a plain vanilla human, that hand would have been amputated. Let's hear it for wizard healing powers! They're slower than X-Man Wolverine's healing factor, but I'd love to have them.
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LibraryThing member bragan
A collection of eleven short stories set in Jim Butcher's Dresden Files series, including several from the POV of various secondary characters, and, oddly, three pieces featuring the teenage son of Bigfoot.
Some of these I quite enjoyed, and the best of them reminded me of my I like this series so
Anyway, it's probably worth reading if you're a fan of Harry Dresden and his weird supernatural world, but mostly it's just made me look forward to the next novel-length volume.
Some of these I quite enjoyed, and the best of them reminded me of my I like this series so
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much, which I think I was beginning to forget after quite some time with no new installments. A lot of them, though, were just... okay. Perfectly readable, but completely lacking in any real spark. The more I think about it, the more I think Butcher's talents really probably really do just work best at novel length. Indeed, the longer stories in here are mostly the better ones.Anyway, it's probably worth reading if you're a fan of Harry Dresden and his weird supernatural world, but mostly it's just made me look forward to the next novel-length volume.
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LibraryThing member reading_fox
A mixed case of stories some better some worse. Mostly set post Changes, not just Harry gets to star, they do fill in a few events referenced in the full novels. Disappointingly it also includes all three of the Bigfoot stories that were included in Side Jobs, and the weakest stories there. They're
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the weakest stories here too. A much better tale is Molly's and how she gained a favour from the Svartelves, along with her first job as Winter Queen, and Butter's day as Knight, these are real highlights. The final story of Harry and Maggie (and Mouse) is a little odd, esp as Mouse gets a POV, but it is fun. Show Less
LibraryThing member jmchshannon
Oh, Harry Dresden, how I have missed you! Even though Jim Butcher collated his short story collection, Brief Cases, two years ago, I used this collection to reintroduce myself into Harry’s world. The stories served to refresh my memory and filled in some blanks that I didn’t know I was
Within the collection, Mr. Butcher introduces new narrators with their unique points of view they provide. Not only does this go a long way to rounding out our knowledge of Harry Dresden and his character, but these new narrators also emphasize the fact that Harry’s influence is much larger than he may realize.
While not necessary for the overarching series, Brief Cases provides a fun way to get to know auxiliary characters a bit more as you wait for the next book in the series. In addition, the different narrators simply served to enhance James Marsters’ consistently excellent narration. For me, Brief Cases was an excellent respite from election anxiety and made me realize just how much I missed this series.
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missing.Within the collection, Mr. Butcher introduces new narrators with their unique points of view they provide. Not only does this go a long way to rounding out our knowledge of Harry Dresden and his character, but these new narrators also emphasize the fact that Harry’s influence is much larger than he may realize.
While not necessary for the overarching series, Brief Cases provides a fun way to get to know auxiliary characters a bit more as you wait for the next book in the series. In addition, the different narrators simply served to enhance James Marsters’ consistently excellent narration. For me, Brief Cases was an excellent respite from election anxiety and made me realize just how much I missed this series.
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LibraryThing member Tip44
want moar!
LibraryThing member tjsjohanna
I love all the glimpses into Mr. Butcher's other characters and the more mundane parts of Harry's life.
LibraryThing member jsabrina
The strength of this collection is the stories of those around Harry: Molly, Butters, Gentleman John Marcone, Maggie, and Mouse. My favorites were the stories of Butters' first mission as a Knight, and the final "Zoo Story," which keeps unfolding into deeper and deeper layers.
LibraryThing member tsmom1219
Totally worth it just for Zoo Day. Mouse needs his own book.
LibraryThing member jennybeast
I was longing for a return to the dresden-verse, and this hit the spot. Most were things I'd read before, but I loved how they span most of the series -- it ends up being a hit list and review over time. Satisfying.
LibraryThing member librisissimo
It's Harry Dresden's world all the way, in snippets of stories that happen between the books.
'Nuff said.
'Nuff said.
Awards
Locus Award (Finalist — Collection — 2019)
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2018-06-05
Physical description
448 p.; 6 inches
ISBN
0451492102 / 9780451492104
Local notes
A collection of Dresden short stories (most of which appeared in previous anthologies).
• "AAAA Wizardry," from the Dresden Files RPG
• "Even Hand," from DARK AND STORMY KNIGHTS, edited by P. N. Elrod
• "B is for Bigfoot," from UNDER MY HAT: TALES FROM THE CAULDRON, edited by Jonathan Strahan. Republished in WORKING FOR BIGFOOT
• "I was a Teenage Bigfoot," from BLOOD LITE 3: AFTERTASTE, edited by Kevin J. Anderson. Republished in WORKING FOR BIGFOOT.
• "Bigfoot on Campus," from HEX APPEAL, edited by P. N. Elrod. Republished in WORKING FOR BIGFOOT.
• "Bombshells," from DANGEROUS WOMEN, edited by George R. R. Martin and Gardner Dozois
• "Jury Duty," from UNBOUND, edited by Shawn Speakman
• "Cold Case," from SHADOWED SOULS, edited by Jim Butcher and Kerrie Hughes
• "Day One," from UNFETTERED II, edited by Shawn Speakman
• "A Fistful of Warlocks," from STRAIGHT OUTTA TOMBSTONE, edited by David Boop
• "Zoo Day" - brand-new novella, original to this collection
• "AAAA Wizardry," from the Dresden Files RPG
• "Even Hand," from DARK AND STORMY KNIGHTS, edited by P. N. Elrod
• "B is for Bigfoot," from UNDER MY HAT: TALES FROM THE CAULDRON, edited by Jonathan Strahan. Republished in WORKING FOR BIGFOOT
• "I was a Teenage Bigfoot," from BLOOD LITE 3: AFTERTASTE, edited by Kevin J. Anderson. Republished in WORKING FOR BIGFOOT.
• "Bigfoot on Campus," from HEX APPEAL, edited by P. N. Elrod. Republished in WORKING FOR BIGFOOT.
• "Bombshells," from DANGEROUS WOMEN, edited by George R. R. Martin and Gardner Dozois
• "Jury Duty," from UNBOUND, edited by Shawn Speakman
• "Cold Case," from SHADOWED SOULS, edited by Jim Butcher and Kerrie Hughes
• "Day One," from UNFETTERED II, edited by Shawn Speakman
• "A Fistful of Warlocks," from STRAIGHT OUTTA TOMBSTONE, edited by David Boop
• "Zoo Day" - brand-new novella, original to this collection
Other editions
Brief Cases by Jim Butcher (Hardcover)