Unexpected encounters with the living and the dead shape this sensitive, lyrical collection of contemporary stories, which explores movement between countries, generations, and social classes, and spans Wales, Ireland, Spain, and India. With a deft touch reminiscent of Mariana Enriquez and Isabel Allende, Canning delves into the nature of survival and the human condition. In 'The Red Dance Costume,' a young Irish dancer, desperate to give up dancing, destroys her costume each night only for it to magically repair itself. In 'Pink Stilettos,' Dolores' confinement leads her to perfecting a hidden gift and stepping out of her adult daughter's control. And in 'Chalk Moon,' a Welsh girl grapples with caring responsibilities and finds solace in the moon. These are characters striving for self-discovery and self-fulfilment from the shadows that torment humanity.