Dream Time

Loosely tied together by a common theme--conveyed by the title--and setting, this collection of 16 short stories provides a colorful assortment of contemporary Australian literature, ranging in tone from somber to light-hearted to fantastical. Science fiction buffs will be enticed by such titles as ``Night of Passage'' (Lee Harding), tracing a girl's journey though a decaying metropolis, and ``Miss Faberge's Last Daze'' (Jenny Wagner), which features a school system run by robots and aliens. Those preferring realism will be moved by other poignant selections that explore such topics as prejudice, growing pains and teen relationships with parents and peers. Sensitively relaying the points of view of both aborigines and whites, this anthology examines how both peoples are affected by the rugged landscape, unique history and mysterious aura of their homeland. Although readers unfamiliar with the country's culture and geography may stumble over some of the terms and allusions, they will easily relate to the concerns and dreams of young people facing new challenges. Ages 10-14. (Sept.)