A review by writesdave
Fine Just the Way it Is, by Annie Proulx
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Having lived in Wyoming for more than 14 years, I developed a certain realistic sentimentality about the place where I've lived longer than any other save my "home" state of Michigan. Realistic, because like everyplace else I've lived, the people there have a pride bordering on arrogance about taming the land, making it home, and fuck anybody for trying to live here if'n yer not reddy.
Annie's stories come from a deep and intimate knowledge of place, and really hit home with me even if my experience didn't reflect our protagonists contained within this collection. It reminded me not only of what I loved about the state but what I didn't love, and why I'm glad to have left for other pastures, not necessarily greener. What Ms. Proulx did was snuff out any sentimentality I had for the 307.
The devil stories pretty much crushed a 5-star rating, like she couldn't find another collection for them so why not put 'em in here? Otherwise, Ms. Proulx remains one of the best living American writers, an uncanny gift for describing a place and creating realistic and compelling characters.
Annie's stories come from a deep and intimate knowledge of place, and really hit home with me even if my experience didn't reflect our protagonists contained within this collection. It reminded me not only of what I loved about the state but what I didn't love, and why I'm glad to have left for other pastures, not necessarily greener. What Ms. Proulx did was snuff out any sentimentality I had for the 307.
The devil stories pretty much crushed a 5-star rating, like she couldn't find another collection for them so why not put 'em in here? Otherwise, Ms. Proulx remains one of the best living American writers, an uncanny gift for describing a place and creating realistic and compelling characters.