Just recently I ordered copies of Moral Disorder by Margaret Atwood for one of our book clubs. Although Atwood is probably best known for one of her many novels, such as The Handmaid’s Tale or The Blind Assassin, Moral Disorder is not a novel but a collection of interrelated, somewhat autobiographical stories that are both humorous and heartbreaking. It chronicles a troubled Canadian family over the course of 60 years. If your club is looking for a something a little different to read, why not try a short story collection next time?
Alice Munro is another Canadian who is considered one of the premier short story writers. Her books often focus on human relationships and in particular, the lives of women. Runaway and The View from Castle Rock are two of her most recent collections.
There are Jews in My House is a collection of stories about Moscow and Brooklyn, written by Lara Vapynar. Vapynar, a recent immigrant from Russia, learned English by watching TV and reading Alice Munro stories!
Edward P. Jones, Pulitzer Prize winner and author of The Known World, has written two collections of short stories that deal with the African-American working class in 20th century Washington, D.C., Lost in the City and All Aunt Hagar’s Children.
Mothers and Sons by Colm Toibin is a collection of haunting and moving stories exploring the relationships of mothers and sons. Ann Packer, author of The Dive From Clausen’s Pier, and just published Songs without Words began her writing career with Mendocino and other Stories, a collection about men and women in their 30’s whose lives have not quite fallen into place.
So before your group submits its list for the fall, consider adding a short story collection to your choices. If you need multiple copies or a discussion guide, contact me.