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3.94 AVERAGE
3.94 AVERAGE
The writing in this book was fantastic but the stories weren't really my style, so I have mixed feelings. I'll just leave it at the fact that there was great talent and originality here. I plan on reading some of the author's work if there is any. Recommended for anyone who is looking at a haunting, thought-provoking, satisfying collection of short stories.
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Revised rating - 2.75*
Relied almost entirely on shock-factor, which got quite predictable. Basically just lots of tween girls being sinister and/or getting abused.
Individual story ratings:
Pilgrims - 3.5*
When She Is Old and I Am Famous - 3*
The Isabel Fish - 3*
Note to Sixth-Grade Self - 3*
The Smoothest Way Is Full of Stones - 3*
Care - 2*
Stars of Motown Shining Bright - 2*
What We Save - 2*
Stations of the Cross - 3*
Relied almost entirely on shock-factor, which got quite predictable. Basically just lots of tween girls being sinister and/or getting abused.
Individual story ratings:
Pilgrims - 3.5*
When She Is Old and I Am Famous - 3*
The Isabel Fish - 3*
Note to Sixth-Grade Self - 3*
The Smoothest Way Is Full of Stones - 3*
Care - 2*
Stars of Motown Shining Bright - 2*
What We Save - 2*
Stations of the Cross - 3*
In addition to the book I am currently reading, I thought I would keep this one on my nightstand and read a couple of stories each night before bed. So much for that...I finished it in a day and a half. I don't usually think of myself as a "short story" person, but I really enjoyed these stories. As others have mentioned they are quite dark and often come at you like a reality sucker punch to the face. Still, I've been reading a lot of fluff and chic lit this summer so it was nice to indulge in something a little meaty. My favorite story was "Note to Sixth Grade Self." I was quite an oddball in sixth grade and really didn't know myself (but really...did anyone?). So, I found the protagonist very easy to relate to. I also loved the commanding voice the narrator used as she spat out warnings and advice to her younger self. If only we could all go back and guide ourselves through those awkward years! In short, I greatly enjoyed Orringer's writing and I can't wait for future publications!
One of the best collections of short stories I have read. A couple of stories were phenomenal and a couple let this collection slip down to 4 stars instead of 5. But a great read nonetheless.