A review by savvylit
Shit Cassandra Saw by Gwen E. Kirby
dark
funny
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
4.5
Set in both modern times and ancient history, Kirby rewrites familiar narratives that allow her female protagonists to come out on top. Some of the strongest stories in this collection are those that are the most playful and satirical. In "A Few Normal Things that Happen a Lot," characters respond to sexual harassment with supernatural attacks. In "Midwestern Girl is Tired of Appearing in Your Short Stories," Kirby gives voice to a tired stereotype that is all too familiar in male-centered fiction.
Another major strength of this collection is Kirby's masterful utilization of dry humor during characterization. For instance, in "Jerry's Crab Shack: One Star," she immerses readers in the mind of a man in a dysfunctional marriage - to great comedic effect. Spoiler alert: it's in the format of a confessional Yelp review.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes bizarre, funny books that put fresh spins on tired tropes.
Another major strength of this collection is Kirby's masterful utilization of dry humor during characterization. For instance, in "Jerry's Crab Shack: One Star," she immerses readers in the mind of a man in a dysfunctional marriage - to great comedic effect. Spoiler alert: it's in the format of a confessional Yelp review.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes bizarre, funny books that put fresh spins on tired tropes.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual harassment, Misogyny, Violence, and Sexism
Moderate: Self harm