Down these strange streets (2011) Parents Guide: Is the book OK for kids?

The sexual content varies by story; Charlaine Harris's 'Death by Dahlia' includes flirtation and vampire sensuality, while other stories contain frank descriptions of sexual attraction or references to non-explicit sexual encounters. Descriptions of characters' physical forms are common in the urban fantasy genre, often emphasizing the supernatural allure of beings like succubae or fae. In 'The Difference Between a Spark and a Flame,' the prose touches upon the history of intimate relationships and past…

High frequency of supernatural combat involving firearms, magic, and melee weapons. Notable scenes include the rotting state of zombies in Diana Gabaldon’s 'Lord John' story, decapitations, and bloody investigations characteristic of the 'hardboiled' genre. In the Simon R. Green entry, magic is used as a weapon that causes gruesome physical distortion and agonizing death. Physical altercations often involve broken bones, gunshot wounds, and the visceral aftermath of monster attacks. The violence is rarely…

Moderate to heavy usage of profanity throughout the anthology. Expect frequent use of 'sh*t,' 'bitch,' and 'bastard,' with occasional uses of 'f*ck' appearing in the more modern noir-style stories like those by M.L.N. Hanover. Some stories employ more period-appropriate or stylized slang that may still include derogatory terms for supernatural beings, serving as a metaphor for racism. The dialogue is consistently gritty, reflecting the hardboiled detective tradition where characters are cynical and rough-edged…

Recreational drinking is common, particularly in the private investigator settings where characters frequent bars or use alcohol to cope with stress. References to supernatural 'thirst' or blood-drinking (vampires) serve as a drug metaphor in several tales, often depicted as an addiction that is difficult to control. Characters are frequently seen with glasses of scotch or whiskey while ruminating over their cases in dark offices. There are mentions of tobacco use and the hazy, smoke-filled atmosphere typical of…

Major themes include the moral ambiguity of justice, the struggle of outcasts in society, betrayal, and the nature of monstrosity. Several stories deal with mourning lost loved ones or the existential weight of immortality, such as Glen Cook's PI story where the past haunts the protagonist. The collection frequently explores the corruption inherent in power structures, whether they be police forces or magical councils. Diana Gabaldon’s entry specifically tackles the grim reality of colonialism and the…