Reviews

Katherine Anne Porter: Collected Stories and Other Writings (Loa #186) by Katherine Anne Porter

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cami19's review against another edition

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lighthearted reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes

4.0

stephanie_opp's review against another edition

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3.0

I focused my reading on the Mexican stories...definitely a traveler's perspective on life in the 1920s, and written with a traveler's distance from the characters.

shellydav's review against another edition

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5.0

Porter, who won both a Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award for this collection, is a genius with the pen, yet often ignored in the canon. Must Reads: Flowering Judas, Old Mortality, Noon Wine, Rope.

serendipitysbooks's review against another edition

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emotional reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

The Collected Stories of Katherine Anne Porter (1966 winner) is hard to review because of the diversity of stories in both form (short story, long story, short novel and long novel, but never novella) and content and Porter's evolution as a writer. Many are at least semi-autobiographical, with the recurring character Miranda, a sort of alter ego for Porter. The variety of the stories in terms of plot, character, themes, and settings is a testament to the fascinating life she led. Porter's writing tends to be straightforward and direct and can feel slightly dated when judged by today's standards. There were some definite standout stories for me, including Pale Horse, Pale Rider, and The Jilting of Granny Weatherall. While I did have some trouble settling in to the collection, I suspect that had more to do with timing rather than the book. I may not have loved it, but I am glad to have read it.

Content Warnings

book_concierge's review against another edition

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2.0

One of our book club members is a fan of the short-story format and she recommended this book. She selected three stories that we were all to read, and suggested that we each read one or two others as well. I understand the superb craft of her writing, but it's not my taste in reading. I certainly noted some wonderful imagery and felt her stream-of-consciousness style is very accessible, still I don't think I'll read more. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.