by T.C. Boyle
“… Boyle is one of the best short story writers around today. His short stories are enjoyable and varied. This compilation of short stories contains some of the most perfect gems that I’ve ever read. First published in 1989, none of these stories feel dated. They could easily have been published last year.
So, they’re good. They’re really good. What’s more, this is a great compilation to read if you’re trying to write short stories. Many of them, especially the shorter ones like “Sorry Fugu” and “Hard Sell,” have similar structure that worthwhile to consider when writing your own short fiction. I’m not suggesting that these are formulaic, anything but. However, if you read several of them, preferably in a row, you get a feel for Boyle’s construction, which is that there is a situation with an antagonist, the POV character makes a decision to outflank the antagonist, and then a suggestion of what the outcome of that situation will be. “
Stories in this compilation:
• Sorry Fugu
• Modern Love
• Hard Sell
• Peace of Mind
• Sinking House
• The Human Fly
• The Hat
• Me Cago en la Leche (Robert Jordan in Nicaragua)
• The Little Chill
• King Bee
• Thawing Out
• The Devil and Irv Cherniske
• The Miracle at Ballinspittle
• Zapatos
• The Ape Lady in Retirement
• If the River Was Whisky
Facts:
English title: If the River Was Whiskey
Original title: If the River Was Whiskey
Published: 1989
