I didn't finish Agyar (though I plan on giving it another try some day), And I don't think I have read any/many of the short stories. I am surprised that I seem to be in the minority in regards to TRiH. I love it. Of all of Steve's books this is the one I have reread the most. I would like to get my hands on a hardcover copy, but I'm not about to spend huge amounts of money for it. Brad