Final Vinyl Days (Ballantine Reader's Circle)

Beautiful! Each and every word. A fascinating one-day read that showcases a variety of the struggles of life.

The only criticism I have of this book was that each story was not turned into a novel, as I did not want to leave the characters as each story ended. As I read this book on the beach, I found my mother giving me strange looks. Turns out, I was laughing out loud. I spent the rest of the afternoon reading passages aloud to her. Maybe it is because I am southern, but I can always relate to McCorkles characters. I am bound to find one of my friends or relatives in her work. I think this is some of her best work to date, and I look forward to more!

Beware! Reading this book will cause you to laugh aloud, possibly causing those with whom you live to question your sanity. Such stories as "Your Husband is Cheating on Us" and the book's namesake, "Final Vinyl Days" show the author's ability to remind the reader of places, events, or people they've known. Her delightful sense of humor can brighten up the more sadder portions, giving the reader a sense of well-being and ownership of the story. This book is truly a slice of life which makes for delicious reading.

First time reading Ms. McCorkle, but it won't be the last. Enjoyed a story or two at a sitting and found that I wanted to slow down and re-read as I passed oh so quickly through this neat collection of startling vignettes. Each portrait drawn was of a memorable character or two and they were not always (gasp)lovable. Then I had to go back to the beginning and revisit each story. Give me more, I really enjoyed these stories, especially the woman with the new career in funerals! My single complaint is that the collection is too brief, yet that is what piqued my initial interest (a handful of a book-let!)

I haven't yet had the opportunity to read the latest by Jill McCorkle, but it's guaranteed to be a wonderful read. She's an excellent writer and draws people into the story. I've read all of her other work and feel like I personally know all of her characters. As a Lumberton, NC native, I can tell you that we're very proud of Jill and her work!