From editor Tim Susman's opening essay, "What are New Fables?": "The stories in this volume range from fantasy to mythic to science fiction. The characters are not American, nor European nor Asian. There are characters who are black and white, shades of grey, and even orange. They have the appearance of animals, but as Aesop's wolf in sheep's clothing might warn you, do not let looks deceive you. Their stories teach us what it means to be, not European, American, black, nor white, but human."

Volume 1 features poems by Elizabeth Barrette, Ryan Campbell, and David Cowan; essays by Phil Guesz and Tim Susman; and stories by Ryan Campbell, Kevin Frane, Michael Payne, and Tim Susman. Cover by Ursula Husted, and interior illustrations by Blotch, Heather Bruton, Jill C., and Sara Palmer.