Mini-Stories: Volume 9

The 99% Invisible City is a comprehensive guide that explores the often-overlooked aspects of urban design, from infrastructure to architecture. It delves into how these elements, though invisible to many, play a crucial role in shaping our daily lives. The book is well-researched and includes detailed illustrations, making it both informative and visually appealing.

This book is a novelization of the film '12 Monkeys', directed by Terry Gilliam. It follows James Cole, a man sent back in time from a post-apocalyptic future to 1990, as he attempts to prevent a lethal virus from being released. The story explores themes of time travel, apocalypse, and the quest for truth amidst chaos. Elizabeth Hand's adaptation closely follows the original screenplay, offering a gripping narrative that delves into the minds of its characters.

The Fifth Element, written by Terry Bisson, is a novelization of the iconic film directed by Luc Besson. The story revolves around Korben Dallas, a former military man turned cab driver, and Leeloo, the Fifth Element, who must combine with four elemental stones to defeat an ancient evil threatening Earth. The novel explores themes of love, survival, and the battle between good and evil in a futuristic setting.

This book introduces a new Catwoman, a feline adventuress with sizzling secrets. The story follows her adventures as she navigates her world with her whip and cunning. Elizabeth Hand brings her unique style to this character, offering a fresh take on the iconic figure.

The novel 'Galaxy Quest' by Terry Bisson is a humorous science fiction tale based on the screenplay by Robert Gordon. It follows the cast of a cancelled TV series who are mistaken for real space heroes by a group of aliens. The story unfolds as these actors must navigate real space adventures while dealing with their own personal struggles and the absurdity of their situation. The book was published in November 1999, a month before the film adaptation.

In this gripping novel, photographer Cass Neary is drawn into a world of antiquarian books and modern technology when she becomes involved in the hunt for an ancient manuscript known as *The Book of Lamps and Banners*. The book is said to possess supernatural powers, and Cass must navigate a complex web of intrigue to clear her name and prevent the book from falling into dangerous hands. Set against a backdrop of political unrest and personal turmoil, Cass's journey is a thrilling exploration of art, identity, and survival.

Hank Searls' novelization of 'Jaws: The Revenge' expands on the film's storyline, incorporating additional subplots such as voodoo and drug smuggling. The book follows Ellen Brody as she believes a shark is seeking revenge on her family after it kills her youngest son. Despite the film's mixed reception, Searls' writing makes the novel more engaging with its extra plot elements.

This book is a novelization of the 1998 film 'The X-Files: Fight the Future', which follows FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully as they investigate a mysterious alien virus. The story expands on the movie's plot, offering deeper insights into the characters and their mission. Elizabeth Hand's adaptation brings the cinematic experience to the page, capturing the suspense and intrigue of the film.