The News of the World (Contemporary American Fiction)

"The News of the World" - stories by Ron Carlson is a great collection. The first book of short stories that Ron wrote in 1987. I've recently read all of Carlson's short story collections, except for his newest one "At the Jim Bridger", which I'm eagerly waiting to crack open. Short stories seem to be either loved or hated by most readers, I happen to love them. If your looking for short stories that are oustanding and superbly written, look no further then anything by Ron Carlson. Part I of the book, which include the first five stories in the book, had me wondering if this collection would stand up to "The Hotel Eden", which I adored Part II did not disappoint, with the first two stories being Carlson's famous - Bigfoot Stole My Wife & the follow up - My Name is Bigfoot, those aren't my personal favorites, but two other stories from this section are - The Time I Died (5 star writing, short story gold) Phenomena (5 star writing, short story gold) Part III is good, with four of the five stories really leaving an impression- Half Life Milk Blood Max Great collection, more affirmation for me that Ron Carlson is my favorite short story writer! Highly recommended!

I wouldn't have believed that you could do so much character development in 20 pages. These stories ring true and pull you in. I can't get enough. Start with "The H Street Sledding Record" about a husband and father that brings his family closer with yearly rituals; a man that so wants another child that he's afraid to ask his wife about the possibility lest she say no. You will identify with the struggles and idiosynchroncies of these people and will really care about how their story will unfold. It may be hard to find, but get this book.

I am not sure when I first read this book, but I return to it as often as possible. Carlson's stories and characters cleave to you (see "Blood"). I believe that readers will be better able to understand themselves, their emotions, and their reactions to trying circumstances after reading these stories. I wish I could assign this book to all of my students.

In 'News of the World', Carlson weaves a tapestry of stories that place common people in both common and absurd situations, keeping a conversational tone throughout. His voice remains simple and genuine, and while these qualify for the elusive genre of literary fiction they are not the inaccessible sort that so many stories from that genre can so often be. At times touching ("Blood") and at times hilarious ("Bigfoot Stole My Wife"), you can't help but like the characters. Nor can you help but read on. One of the better collections of stories I've read, I have recommended this book often and will continue to do so