Books matching: flash fiction
15 result(s)
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- #1
People From My Neighbourhood by Hiromi Kawakami is a collection of 36 short stories set in an extraordinary Japanese neighborhood. The stories mix the strange with the everyday, featuring bizarre events and quirky characters that make the mundane feel magical. Some people experience unusual changes due to a disease called Pigeonitis, and odd occurrences, like gravity disappearing, happen, creating a surreal atmosphere.
Kawakami's writing style is inviting and engaging, making it easy for the reader to get immersed in this whimsical world. Each story connects to the others, adding depth to the characters and their experiences. While some tales may feel a bit odd or slow, overall, the book offers a delightful exploration of community life filled with absurdity and charm.
- #2
'Hexarchate Stories' is a collection of short stories that provide background and expansion to the central characters of Yoon Ha Lee's 'Machineries of Empire' trilogy. The stories delve into the younger lives of Jedao and Cheris, offering great backstory, insights into the universe they inhabit, and additional character histories. The collection includes prequel stories, follow-ups to the original trilogy, and glimpses into important moments in the characters' lives. The writing style is described as having quiet humor, evocative words, and insights into the characters' personalities.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Machineries of Empire ) - #3
The 'Palm-of-the-Hand Stories' by Yasunari Kawabata is a collection of very short stories, ranging from 1 to 3 pages in length, written over a period of 50 years. The stories often explore themes of death, family life, beauty, surrealism, and the blurring line between reality and dreams. Kawabata's writing style is described as minimalistic, poetic, and impressionistic, focusing on brief character studies, sensory impressions, and the unsaid or implied aspects of the narrative.
- #4
'The Tent' by Margaret Atwood is a collection of short stories, essays, and poems that offer glimpses into various aspects of life, often approached through symbolism and reflections. Atwood's writing style is described as reflective, witty, engaging, and thought-provoking. The book covers a wide range of topics, from world issues to personal relationships, all presented in a unique and insightful manner. The stories are varied in tone, ranging from humorous to heart-wrenching, and showcase Atwood's ability to craft impactful narratives in a concise manner.
It helps if there are photos. No more choices for the people in them – pick this one, dump that one. The livers of the lives in question had their chances, most of which they blew. They should have sp... - #5
'Creeping Waves' by Matthew M. Bartlett is a complex and surreal horror novel that weaves together a mythology of the town of Leeds and its strange inhabitants. The book is a mix of horror, terror, comedy, surrealism, and satire, defying easy categorization. The narrative consists of a series of vignettes, character sketches, and prose poetry that build upon each other, creating an avalanche of dread that immerses the reader into the dark and unsettling atmosphere of the story.
The book is filled with grotesque and macabre imagery, evoking hair-raising and terrifying scenes that are both horrifying and exhilarating for the reader. The writing style of Bartlett is praised for its potency, madness, and impeccable word choice, making the events and characters, no matter how depraved, strangely beautiful. The interconnected stories in the book create a self-referential and cubist energy that is both horrific and uproariously funny, showcasing Bartlett's mastery of the weird horror genre.
The man with the hat was—is—William Dither. Ages ago we tore apart all we saw, made people fear to walk the streets unless they were in a mob, even made them fear walking in the light of day. This tow... - #6
A Man of Character follows Catherine, a grounded woman in her thirties who inherits a bookstore from her late father. With the help of her friend Eliza, she navigates a world where fictional characters from her stories start to come to life, leading her on a journey of self-discovery and romance. The story blends elements of magic, romance, and friendship, creating a modern-day fairy tale that explores the complexities of relationships and the balance between fantasy and reality.
The book captivates readers with its lighthearted and engaging narrative, weaving together dreamy dates, relatable characters, and a touch of magic that keeps the reader hooked. Through Catherine's journey of finding love and discovering her true desires, Margaret Locke crafts a story that balances whimsy with depth, offering a refreshing take on contemporary romance with a hint of fairy tale charm.
The last thing Catherine wanted to do was talk about men. She didn’t need to think about anything except the bookstore, especially on today of all days. But she’d promised to rehash her roommate Eliza... - #7
'Sixty Stories' by Donald Barthelme is a collection of short stories that are described as brilliant, avant-garde, and accessible at the same time. The stories are characterized by a bent sense of humor, mixing ennui and a sense of naughty fun. The writing style is graceful, sophisticated, and often surreal, with a touch of postmodernism and satire. The stories touch on various themes such as the distinction between children and adults, individual egos, and the human condition.
- #8
Tokyo Montana Express by Richard Brautigan is a collection of short stories that blend the backdrops of Montana and Tokyo, showcasing the author's unique perspective on life. Brautigan's writing style seamlessly weaves together the ridiculous and somber elements, creating a montage of his experiences during that period. The stories reflect his love for humanity and his ability to appreciate the human condition, presenting narratives that are both simple and mysterious, playful and insightful.
The book explores themes of mixed culture marriages, life experiences in different locations, and the musings of the author along the imaginary stops of a fast train. Brautigan's prose is described as clean, simple, and profoundly impactful, reminiscent of a hippie writer with a genius way with words. Through a series of small sketches, the book offers glimpses into various aspects of life, showcasing Brautigan's ability to capture moments with wit and imagination.
On the third day out from Lucky Ford River we found a corpse almost eaten by wolves (which are very numerous here, howl in concert at night and keep us awake) and scalped by the Indians… We buried him... - #9
The Short Stories of F. Scott Fitzgerald is a captivating collection that showcases the early work of the author known for The Great Gatsby. These stories, ranging from humorous to melancholic, feature a variety of characters and themes, from spurned lovers to unique plots like a boy aging backwards. Fitzgerald's writing style shines through with its emotional depth and intriguing insights into the lives of people from a specific era, making the tales relatable even today.
The stories reflect the charm and complexity of life in the early 20th century. They serve as a time capsule, allowing readers to connect with characters from nearly a century ago. Despite occasional editing issues, the craftsmanship of Fitzgerald’s prose stands out, proving that he excelled in this literary form. For those unfamiliar with his work, this collection is a great introduction to Fitzgerald's storytelling prowess.
- #10
Fifty-One Tales by Lord Dunsany is a collection of short stories and prose pieces that delve into fantasy, mythology, and philosophical themes. The tales are often very short, atmospheric, and quirky, with some being twists on myths or fables. The writing style is described as poetic and literary, with a focus on irony, satire, humor, and sheer poetry packed into concise narratives.
I was climbing round the perilous outside of the Palace of Colquonhombros. So far below me that in the tranquil twilight and clear air of those lands I could only barely see them lay the craggy tops o...