'The pieces printed here represent work in progress in the making of a great writer, and in at least one of them, genius finds its perfect vehicle.' Christopher Howse, Daily Telegraph

'… a rare insight into the young Kipling.' The Observer

'This fascinating collection lays bare the early development of Kipling's art, before giving us a single, powerful glimpse of where it would take him.' Andrew Glazzard, New Statesman

'Only now, thanks to Thomas C. Pinney (a mighty Kiplingologist, editor of his complete correspondence), do we have a definitive list (of Kipling's short fiction), and a whole new book of these early pieces, many of which have never been reprinted before.' Sir Noel Malcolm, The Sunday Telegraph

'For students of Kipling's writing, this will open a window into the work of a young, but very talented, writer as he rehearses and practices his craft, finding his way as he develops a style that will become distinctly his own.' Rosi Hollinbeck, San Francisco Book Review

'A treasure trove for Kipling's fans and for anyone interested in fiction set in India during the British Raj …' Desi News

'Pinney's editorial skill and scholarship are everywhere evident in these pages.' Jan Montefiore, The Times Literary Supplement

'… this whole volume is a helpful addition to the library of anyone with a serious interest in this prolific and extraordinary writer.' John Batchelor, Modern Language Review