Reading this collection of short stories by one of the finest writers of fantasy and science fiction, I was struck by how often the author Andre Norton drew upon cultural themes and fables. TALES FROM HIGH HALLACK: Book Three, covers her works from 1996 - 2005 and right from the start we meet Vikings, Four Corners Natives, Celts and a twist on the story of the Frog Prince.

Andre Norton was a Grand Master of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, and her publisher Tom Doherty has collected her tales from sixty years of writing, until her death in 2005. She often wrote for young adults, and featured cats in many tales; she may be best known for her WitchWorld series of novels.

Herne's Lady tells of a young woman who fails to attract a husband in the London marriage mart, but inherits a manor house and becomes a good steward of the people and woods. Someone older dwells in the woodland, and the locals mutter superstitions. Is the lady of the manor in danger, or under protection?

No Folded Hands introduces Julian Bearclaw and other tribal language speakers, who use their code talk and shaman skills to help them against invading aliens.

The Outling is one I particularly enjoyed: a village midwife and healer adopts a shapechanger girl cub, but if the village ever learns that the growing child is not entirely human, all will be lost.

Needle And Dream bears a resonance with the quilting stories in modern books; a girl stitching her marriage- piece on a quilting frame is told that the lore and love she sews into her quilt may be needed to protect her village from the Dark.

Three Inch Trouble shows Raven, a brave spaceship's cat, who knows that it's his job to rid the ship of pesky pests, even if they bite!

Anyone who enjoys fantasy and science fiction will have a good time with this varied collection of short tales, which is suitable for young adults or adults. The top- quality writing means that the style of each story alters with the setting and speech of the characters, bringing each gem individually to life. TALES FROM HIGH HALLACK is a great way to get to know Andre Norton's work.