February Reading Wrap-up
Jillian - Halle Butler
This book centres on two characters, medical receptionist Megan and her co-worker Jillian, who are both self-destructive and struggling in very different ways. Megan can't seem to stop being a terrible person and is also clinically depressed, while Jillian is maniacally trying to make the best life possible for her, her son and her recently adopted puppy. This book is incredibly well written and funny, despite the fact that it makes you feel uncomfortable from start to finish. It's a classic case of being able to look away from a car crash, and Butler effectively head hops to other characters to really highlight how much of a downward tragectory these two women are on. It's also one of those books that makes you care about the characters really deeply despite the fact that they would be completely intolerable irl.
Several People are Typing - Calvin Kasulke
Written entirely through Slack messages, this book tells the story of a man who is uploaded to his work Slack channel. It's a bizarre concept and while there are naturally some very whacky moments, the corporate back and forth is painfully realistic. The structure makes this a very quick read that was unique, funny and surprisingly heartwarming.
Young Skins - Colin Barrett
I really wanted to be blown away by this collection, but when I first started reading it I wasn't sure it was living up to my expectations. However, Barretts’ writing has a way of creeping up on you and by the third story, the world of the characters (small-town Mayo) had settled in my soul. Written with such empathy and understanding, I can't wait to read more by this author.
Two Nurses Smoking - David Means
I was introduced to David Means at a writing workshop and I immediately went out and bought it. Means’ writing is structured in such an interesting way and stories are told from unique perspectives. Means also has a way of breaking the fourth wall in relation to his own life, leaving you unsure how much is autobiography and how much is fiction. While I didn't love all of these, I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in short stories. The titular story and Depletion Prompts are must reads.
The Drivers Seat - Muriel Spark
This is a weird story for sure, but well worth reading. It follows a strange woman on a trip to a southern city, where she seems to wander around finding herself in a bizarre series of events. For most of this book I wondered what was even going on, but was entertained enough to roll with it. The ending is dark and satisfying, also considering its under 100 pages, it can also be a one-sitting read.
Shame - Annie Ernaux
I've seen Ernaux recommend so much lately and after reading Shame, her reflections on a moment of sudden violence in her childhood, I see why. The prose was stunning and evocative. The exploration of shame in all it's forms was so honest and empathetic. It hit hard in so few pages and is, in my opinion, essential.
Western Lane - Chetna Maroo
This is a slow burn but worth it. The story follows a young girl and her sisters, whose father starts them on an intensive squash training regiment in the wake of their mothers death. I liked how it explored grief and family and first love in such a subtle and gentle way, but to be honest I didn't love it as much as I wanted to.
