A Phoenix First Must Burn

Sixteen stories by bestselling and award-winning authors that explore the Black experience through fantasy, science fiction, and magic—coming together in one stunning narrative of hope.

“Fulfills its promise of celebrating Black girl protagonists . . . an enormously electric and entertaining collection.”—Locus

“As interrogative as Octavia E. Butler, as fierce as Beyoncé, as thoughtful as Phillis Wheatley, [and] as revolutionary as Ida B. Wells.”—Tor

“Delightfully queer . . . as diverse as the Black experience.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Bestselling, award-winning, and talented fresh voices weave together past, present, and future worlds in tales of love, betrayal, strength, and resistance. Together, these stories chronicle the Black experience, centering Black women and gender-nonconforming individuals through folktales, futuristic societies, and everything in between. Witches and scientists, sisters and lovers, priestesses and rebels: the heroes of A Phoenix First Must Burn shine brightly. You will never forget them.

Authors Include: Amerie, Elizabeth Acevedo, Rebecca Roanhorse, Alaya Dawn Johnson, Somaiya Daud, Justina Ireland, L.L. McKinney, Dhonielle Clayton, Patrice Caldwell Danny Lore, Ibi Zoboi, Danielle Paige, Ashley Woodfolk, Charlotte Nicole Davis, Karen Strong, and J. Marcelle Corrie

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs