Fragile Things
Read "Fragile Things" as the 2nd book in the Short Fiction Collections and Non-Fiction sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.
⚠️ Do NOT read before "Smoke And Mirrors" (Book 1)
This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.
Verdict Insight: As the 2nd installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.
Adventures In The Dream Trade
Book #3 of 8 in Series
Complete Series Reading Order
Publication Order
Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.
Chronological Order
May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.
Order Confidence
Why this order?
Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.
Why This Order Is Confusing
Many reading lists for Short Fiction Collections and Non-Fiction conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I skip reading Fragile Things?
This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.
Can I read Fragile Things before Smoke And Mirrors?
No. We recommend reading Smoke And Mirrors first. Fragile Things is the 2th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.
Is Fragile Things required reading for the Short Fiction Collections and Non-Fiction?
Yes, it is a core installment in the series reading order and contains critical character development and plot progression.
What comes after Fragile Things in the reading order?
The next recommended book after Fragile Things is Adventures In The Dream Trade (Book #3).
More by Neil Gaiman
Spawn Origins Collection 2
2010
Neil Gaiman Young Readers' Collection (Coraline / Fortunately, The Milk / Graveyard Book / Odd And The Frost Giants)
2014
The Year's Best Fantasy And Horror--ninth Annual Collection
2021
The Neil Gaiman Audio Collection (Cinnamon / Crazy Hair / Day I Swapped My Dad For Two Goldfish / Wolves In The Walls
2004