mimireads320's review
3.0
These collection of stories went up and down for me. Some were very good. Some didn't hold my attention for very long
patlibrary89's review
2.0
Not a bookclub book. Borrowed from Claudia. Strange book - 9 short stories all together. Most very melancholy.
infinitejoe's review
5.0
5 stars all the way.
I read Model Home a while ago, and loved that book. I can't believe it took me this long to read his collection of short stories, but I'm glad I finally did.
I saw a New York Times blurb that described Puchner as "technically gifted and emotionally insightful", and I think that about sums it up. His writing is almost perfection, and he can come from any angle without missing a beat. Humorous, humane, creepy, suspenseful, depressing, hopeful. He masters all of it and more.
I really wish he would be a little more productive, though. I would read anything this guy put down on a page.
I read Model Home a while ago, and loved that book. I can't believe it took me this long to read his collection of short stories, but I'm glad I finally did.
I saw a New York Times blurb that described Puchner as "technically gifted and emotionally insightful", and I think that about sums it up. His writing is almost perfection, and he can come from any angle without missing a beat. Humorous, humane, creepy, suspenseful, depressing, hopeful. He masters all of it and more.
I really wish he would be a little more productive, though. I would read anything this guy put down on a page.
jonathanwlodarski's review against another edition
5.0
The stories that most enchanted in me this collection were "Neon Tetra," "Animals Here Below," and best of all "Essay #3: Leda and the Swan." Puchner's stories all glimmer and shine, but these three were the best. None of them left me feeling indifferent or bored, which is gratifying. I would say that even my least favorite tales ("Diablo" and "Missions") are passable. I give it a 5 because the whole thing is great, and I might have even given it a 5 for "Essay #3" alone. Seriously. So good.
4.5/5
4.5/5
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