Funny, moving and sharply observed, these stories are confirmation of Boyd's status os one of English fiction's finest writers. Here are twenty-two gripping tales told in bold, distinct voices from Brazil to Africa and from Nice to Hollywood. The eclectic omnibus, previously published as the collections On the Yankee Station and The Destiny of Nathalie 'X', is a must read for any lover of the short story.Killing lizards - Not yet, Jayette - Bizarre situations - Hardly ever - The care and attention of swimming pools - Next boat from Douala - Gifts - My girl in skin-tight jeans - Histoire vache - On the Yankee Station - Bat-girl! - Love hurts - Extracts from the journal of Flying Officer J. - The coup - Long story short - The destiny of Nathalie 'X' - Transfigured night - Hotel des Voyageurs - Never saw Brazil - The dream lover - Alpes Maritimes - N is for N - The persistence of vision - Cork.