Books Like...
'Cathedral' by Raymond Carver is a short story that emphasizes the theme of not judging others based on appearances. Through the perspective of the narrator, the story explores the transformation of his views towards a blind man named Robert. Initially critical and judgmental, the narrator gradually learns to see beyond stereotypes and societal labels, leading to a personal epiphany about his own life and relationships. Carver's writing style offers a straightforward narrative in first person, providing insight into the narrator's evolving mindset and highlighting the themes of acceptance and self-reflection.
If you liked Cathedral, here are the top 100 books to read next:
'What We Talk About When We Talk About Love' by Raymond Carver is a collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of human emotions, primarily focusing on themes of love, loneliness, confusion, and discontent. Carver's writing style is described as minimalist, yet impactful, with a keen ability to capture the raw and vulnerable moments in his characters' lives. The stories often revolve around ordinary activities and interactions, but Carver's unique narrative approach leaves readers contemplating the deeper layers of each tale.
The four of us were sitting around his kitchen table drinking gin. Sunlight filled the kitchen from the big window behind the sink. There were Mel and me and his second wife, Teresa—Terri, we called h...- #2
Save:'A Small, Good Thing' by Raymond Carver is a collection of short stories that delves into the delicate humanity of its characters, leaving a profound impact on the readers. The stories are known for being haunting, emotional, and thought-provoking, with themes of grief, hope, and connection woven throughout. Carver's writing style is often described as dirty, realistic, and unsettling, yet he manages to convey deep emotions and insights with very few words.
'The Egg' by Andy Weir is a very short story that delves into philosophical and thought-provoking concepts about the afterlife and reincarnation. The plot revolves around a conversation between a deceased individual and God, where the protagonist learns mind-bending truths that challenge traditional beliefs. The writing style is concise yet impactful, conveying complex ideas in a few pages and leaving a lasting impression on the reader.
It was a car accident. Nothing particularly remarkable, but fatal nonetheless. You left behind a wife and two children. It was a painless death. The EMTs tried their best to save you, but to no avail....- #4
Save:'The Secret Lives of Church Ladies' is a collection of short stories that delves into the lives of Black women and girls navigating the complexities of faith, family, and personal desires. The stories explore the struggles and desires of the characters caught between the expectations of their church communities and their own realities, all while highlighting the humanity, vulnerabilities, and strengths of the characters. Through vivid storytelling, the author portrays real and grounded characters facing compelling conflicts, creating a powerful collection that resonates with readers.
For Eula’s birthday the next year, I planned a special dinner at my house for us. I went down to the fish market on Avery and got everything to make gumbo, her favorite dish. Eula liked my Grandma Pau... - #5
Save:'A Perfect Day for Bananafish' by J.D. Salinger is a collection of short stories that captivate readers with its intricate storytelling and profound character development. The plot delves into themes of mental health, trauma, and the preservation of innocence, as seen through the lens of complex characters like Seymour Glass. Salinger's writing style is described as whimsical, dark, and enigmatic, with a keen ability to evoke deep emotions and provoke thought in readers. is a blend of humor, weirdness, and shock that leaves a lasting impact on those who read it.
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Save:The Swimmer by John Cheever is a haunting and thought-provoking short story that delves into the unsettling aspects of suburban life. The story follows the main character, Ned, as he embarks on a journey through swimming pools in his neighborhood, reflecting on his past and the changes in his life. The narrative style of Cheever keeps readers engaged, with a simple yet genius idea that culminates in an ending that leaves a lasting impact, giving readers chills and prompting introspection.
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Save:'Tenth of December' by George Saunders is a collection of short stories that delve into the human experience, exploring themes of morality, social commentary, and the complexities of everyday life. The stories range from futuristic settings to contemporary scenarios, each offering a unique perspective on the human condition. Saunders' writing style is described as original, imaginative, and full of heart, with a touch of fantasy and science fiction elements that add depth and complexity to the narratives.
The characters in 'Tenth of December' are faced with moral dilemmas, ethical decisions, and societal pressures, all while navigating through a world that is both darkly comical and deeply thought-provoking. Saunders' storytelling genius shines through as he weaves together tales of compassion, humor, and introspection, leaving a lasting impact on readers with his inventive plots and engaging prose.
Say the staircase was marble. Say she descended and all heads turned. Where was {special one}? Approaching now, bowing slightly, he exclaimed, How can so much grace be contained in one small package? ... - #8
Save:Many readers describe "A Good Man is Hard to Find" by Flannery O'Connor as a chilling Southern gothic short story that leaves a lasting impact on the mind. The collection of short stories by O'Connor delves into dark and unsettling themes, featuring amazingly irredeemable characters that are truly terrible people. The writing style of O'Connor is often noted for its subtle creepiness and ability to evoke a sense of slow, quiet, and creeping horror. The plot of the book is known to come out of nowhere and knock the readers on their butt, showcasing unexpected twists and turns that keep the readers engaged.
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Save:'Everything Ravaged, Everything Burned' by Wells Tower is a collection of short stories that delve into the lives of characters who are grappling with human nature, making sense of their existence through brutal, funny, and humane actions. The stories cover a wide range of emotions, from sadness and heartbreak to moments of dark humor and compassion. Tower's writing style is described as well-crafted, delicately beautiful, and occasionally very funny, capturing the essence of contemporary life with acerbic wit and a macabre sense of humor.
Bob Munroe woke up on his face. His jaw hurt and morning birds were yelling and there was real discomfort in his underpants. He’d come in late, his spine throbbing from the bus ride down, and he had s... - #10
Save:Ernest Hemingway's short story "Hills Like White Elephants" addresses the controversial subject of abortion in a minimalist fashion, leaving the interpretation of the characters' discussions up to the reader. The story revolves around a couple at a train station between Madrid and Barcelona, symbolizing the choice they face regarding whether to proceed with the abortion or not. Through symbolism and subtle hints in the dialogue, Hemingway explores the conflict between the characters and the uncertainty surrounding the decision they must make.
The writing style of "Hills Like White Elephants" is characterized by Hemingway's use of minimalism, symbolism, and dialogue to emphasize the dichotomy between the characters and the deeper meaning of the story. The setting of the train station between two cities mirrors the characters' dilemma, while the descriptive language enhances the conflict between light and darkness, symbolizing the contrasting opinions regarding the decision at hand. Through the use of distinct symbols and dialogue, Hemingway conceals the reality of the situation, inviting readers to uncover the hidden meaning behind the text.
