Three short stories lead this anthology from American publisher PM Press, in a collection that brings together fiction, nonfiction and an extended interview. Part of PM’s Outspoken Authors series, previous books have focused on writers such as Michael Moorcock, Terry Bisson and Jonathan Lethem.

 

In Machine Elves Descending, pod-dweller Stretch scans the flatlands as an alien spaceship approaches. Creating an illusion of emptiness, he hopes the invaders will become bored and leave. Once the aliens have landed, though, Stretch is confused as strange memories close in. Granny’s Letters tells the story of an elderly widow waiting for an under-threat Post Office to deliver her mail, but Granny Smith isn’t as frail as she appears. She certainly knows how to dish out some tough justice. See No Evil finds Jimmy Ramone (The Prison House) released from jail and, facing temptation, conscious that he must resist if he is to survive the night.

 

The four essays in the collection are ‘Writing The Canals’: finding inspiration in the local waterways. ‘A Very Corporate Coup’: a piece that appeared in the New Statesman in the run-up to the EU referendum. ‘The Shed’: a trip into the famous Chelsea home end and the author’s youth. ‘May Day’: an introduction to the London Books edition of John Sommerfield’s 1936 novel of the same name, republished as part of the London Classics series.

 

Finally, “Call Me Elvis” – John King interviewed by the surrealist collagist and experimental novelist Allan Kausch. Books, beer and punk rock… Animal rights, international travel, our spiritual paths… The Clash, Bowie, Pete Johnson… Alan Sillitoe, George Orwell, American fiction.

 

DUE TO BE PUBLISHED IN AUGUST, 2026.