Review of The World of Myth Magazine Anthology III first published in 2018 by Dark Myth Publications
When this chunky anthology arrived in the mail, I truly did not know what to expect. I gave it a flick through and was surprised to see something new this time around, a poetry section. Poetry has been such a strongly supported medium throughout the existence of The World of Myth since September 2004 (issue one), but an obvious absence from anthologies I and II. The poets featured are familiar names, Jeff R. Young, Rebecca (Grrl of Myth) Ilich, Kevin (Prince of Darkness) Magnus with a surprisingly sweet piece, El Presidente Mr. David K Montoya with a sweet and heartbreaking message to his wife Lacie, amongst others, but this comes at the end of the book.
Much of this great tome is its stories. The stories themselves tell stories. For this is the record of the Member of the Month pieces from issue 43 (Fall 2010) all the way through to issue 66 (October 2018). We see the gaps between issues in the years 2011, 2012, and then 2017, a reflection on tough times, followed by a triumphant return. As Dave has mentioned in the introduction this is an anthology for the writers just as much for the reader, and it is equally a nod of thanks to the string of magazine editors and chief editors that have taken on this most important role across the years.
David's mention of his mentor and friend in the introduction has also caught my eye, recognizing that this is the first anthology in which Terry D. Scheerer did not play a part in editing or assembling, sadly passing away in 2016 (God's speed to a true master of the craft). Dare I suggest that the mantle of master editor has been passed to some talented hands with Dave, you have taught him well, Terry.
So, that's enough background about the book, and the poetry too. I'm sure you are all asking, what of the stories? Well Terry did not play a role in creating this anthology, but he is still there with a couple of his pieces, a clever political fantasy (All that Glitters) and a perfect mix of terror and humour (It's Later than you Think). It is stories like these that only make us miss you more, Terry. Another friend who has now passed on, master of creating characters with humanity, Steve Carr also gets a slot. His story The Tunnel Merchants (issue 59 March 2018) is a fine example of his storytelling ability. In fact, every writer featured in this wonderful book proves why and how they have been awarded Member of the Month in their respected issue, some twice over, cementing that hard earned title. Only the best of the best gets published here. And I cannot go past the fact that each story is unique, a variety of genres. It is not a monster anthology, a fairy and fae fest, or an invitation to visit vampire country. This is Chief Executive Officer Mr. Montoya holding a mirror up to the years that have gone before and smiling at the result. Yes, there have been the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, but through it all there has been The World of Myth… His magazine… Our magazine… And for someone who has come late to the party (my first piece ever published in issue 85, June 2020) but had the utter enjoyment of reviewing every piece in every issue, this is a wonderful trip down memory lane. So, if you are reading these stories and poems for the first time or the hundredth, know that in your hands you hold history. This is what came before, and we stand upon the shoulders of true giants of talent. Wizards of wonderful writing. This anthology is a worthy exhibit of proof that would hold up in any court, be it a court of law or one ruled over by a king of some fantastical kingdom. It is a must have for any home library. It deserves twenty-fours stars at the very least, one for each of the shining contributors. So if you have not yet bought one, do yourself a favor and head straight to Mythmart (www.mythmart.com). Do it now… Tell them Tim sent you…