Lions and Gazelles

I have read several of this author's highly-regarded stories previously (in Gardner Dozois' outstanding "The Year's Best Science Fiction" collections) BUT I had not enjoyed any of them. One of them was "Elegy for a Young Elk", but I do not recall other tittles. Also, my wife read one of his novels, and had a similarly negative opinion. On the other hand, I didn't read it myself, so I shouldn't comment - oops - direct the secretary to disavow all knowledge of my actions, Mr. Phelps.

However, I am pleased to report that I finally found one that I liked!; Despite the rating of 2 1/2 stars, that actually translates to a rating of "B" in my system (see below).

My rating system: I begin with one star being equivalent to a rating of "C-". Progressing upwards, I add ½ star for each step, up to the maximum 5 stars, which is equivalent to a rating of "A"+. I reserve ½ star for BOMBS, there being no option of zero or negative stars. As a result, I set aside my rating space for good books, and don't squander half or more of that rating space on books that are of marginal quality.