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Neil Gaiman

Smoke and Mirrors

Quick Answer

Read "Smoke and Mirrors" as the 5th book in the Picture Books and Children's Fiction sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "Blueberry Girl" (Book 4)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Verdict Insight: As the 5th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2005
In the deft hands of Neil Gaiman, magic is no mere illusion ... and anything is possible. In this, Gaiman's first book of short stories, his imagination and supreme artistry transform a mundane world into a place of terrible wonders -- a place where an old woman can purchase the Holy Grail at a thrift store, where assassins advertise their services in the Yellow Pages under "Pest Control," and where a frightened young boy must barter for his life with a mean-spirited troll living beneath a bridge by the railroad tracks. Explore a new reality -- obscured by smoke and darkness, yet brilliantly tangible -- in this extraordinary collection of short works by a master prestidigitator. It will dazzle your senses, touch your heart, and haunt your dreams.
Next Recommended Book

Instructions

Book #6 of 14 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

Medium 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 Picture Books and Children's 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 Smoke and Mirrors?

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Can I read Smoke and Mirrors before Blueberry Girl?

No. We recommend reading Blueberry Girl first. Smoke and Mirrors is the 5th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is Smoke and Mirrors required reading for the Picture Books and Children's Fiction?

Yes, it is a core installment in the series reading order and contains critical character development and plot progression.

What comes after Smoke and Mirrors in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Smoke and Mirrors is Instructions (Book #6).