While I did enjoy some of the stories, I honestly think this book isn't necessary to read at all. Barely any of the characters that we've been introduced to were actually the main focus of the short stories. And the ones that were, well...they were okay. Nawat's story was just weird and kind of worrying...like I'm seriously concerned for Aly and Nawat's relationship in the future. And the one about Kitten was nice, but confusing cause it was hard to picture. I found the second and third short stories to be slightly problematic. Though in the afterwards it was somewhat explained what Tamora Pierce was trying to do, I just don't know if it was executed that well. The Huntress story has to be the weirdest thing I've ever read. It doesn't even take place in Tortall, but in New York?!! It was kind of creepy and shocking, but also drew me in, so I guess that's a good thing. One thing I wish was added was a map and like points on the map showing where each story takes place, cause I have no idea if some of the stories take place in the Circle Universe or not. Overall, I don't think this book is necessary to read at all, and I'd honestly skip it. It's not going to be something I'll pick up again and again like Tammy's actual Tortall/Circle books.