<DIV><B>A collection of original and dazzling short stories from the Asham Award—a prize for stories by women, including specially commissioned stories from Ali Smith and Sara Wheeler</B></div><DIV> </DIV><DIV>Here are stories of people who journey far and those who get as far as their dreams, of strange things in suitcases and roads that should not have been taken, of exotic cities and shabby seaside towns, of leaving lovers to hit the open road, and of the humor that comes with getting lost abroad. Some are about running away, and some about coming home. With new stories from Helen Dunmore and Susie Boyt and a tale by Angela Carter, this is a book to tuck in your backpack, your case, or your carry-on, or to enjoy deep in your armchair. You are about to go on a wonderful journey. The Sussex home of Virginia Woolf, Asham House, has been the source and support of this celebrated prize since 1995. This year's collection, with the theme of "journey," was judged by Helen Dunmore (<I>Ingo</I>), Sara Wheeler (<I>Too Close to the Sun</I>), and Virago's Lennie Goodings.</DIV>