Steel and Other Stories

Matheson’s latest collection features two recently published pieces, but is otherwise a repackaging of largely unremarkable speculative fiction stories originally published in the 1950s. Matheson’s inextinguishable imagination is apparent in “Dr. Morton’s Folly” (2009), a humorous little gem about a vampire in need of immediate dental assistance, and “The Window of Time” (2010), a heartfelt, quietly profound story about an elderly retired author who seeks out a nearby retirement home and finds a portal to the past. Other standouts include the classic “Steel,” inspiration for the forthcoming film Real Steel, and “The Traveller,” about a researcher who goes back in time and witnesses the crucifixion of Jesus. With stories that span more than half a century and the full range of horror, science fiction, and dark fantasy, this uneven collection primarily stands as a testament to Matheson’s literary longevity. (Oct.)