The award-winning "Sweet, Funny, and Strange" series of anthologies from the Bethlehem Writers Group, continues with this collection of twenty-five tales about real, legendary, or imaginary animals. From snakes to ducks to unicorns, there are tales here to match any mood, provide a chuckle, or warm a heart.

Among our tales, Peter Barbour recounts a legend in "Why Bats Live in Caves,'' Jerome W. McFadden asks the question of what animal to choose to be in "Recycled,'' A. E. Decker shares an appreciation of cephalopods in "Tipping Point,'' Ralph Hieb imagines an unconventional pet in "Buttons,'' and Diane Sismour, in "Critter,'' reveals that mules are not the only equines that can have a stubborn streak.

In addition, we are happy to present the winning stories from the 20 I 9 and 2020 Bethlehem Writers Roundtable Short Story Awards. Angela Albertson, our 20I9 winner, shares her heartfelt "Oranges and Roses,'' and our 2020 winner, Brett Wolff, gives us a good laugh in "Hubbard Has a Fancy Bra."

This eclectic assemblage of stories includes terrific tales from beloved BWG authors including Courtney Annicchiarico, Jeff Baird, Jodi Bogert, Marianne H. Donley, DT Krippene, Emily P. W. Murphy, Christopher D. Ochs, Dianna Sinovic, Kidd Wads­worth, Paul Weidknecht, Carol L. Wright, and Will Wright.

So cuddle up with your favorite pet-real or imaginary. No matter. You'll find just the right story to share.