“Self Reliance” is the last story of this short story collection. It’s about seven pages long. I’d suggest you read “Self Reliance” first as a test drive. If you like the story, then by all means read all of the stories in Binocular Vision. If “Self Reliance” doesn’t speak to you or turns you off, stop right there. All the stories share a unique sensibility. I have a mixed reaction to the 34 stories in Binocular Vision. Any humor in the stories is unintentional. Although Pearlman writes with the precision of a surgeon, the tone of most of her stories is chilly and distant. “Inbound” tells the story of a family touring the libraries of Harvard University. Their precocious young daughter gets separated from her mom and dad and disabled sister. The events are seen through the eyes of the lost child. The story’s conclusion stayed with me for days. There’s no denying the power of Pearlman’s stories. Amy Patchett’s “Introduction” praises Edith Pearlman’s work to the skies. I can’t go quite that far. GRADE: B
I am intrigued. Will see if our library has it.
There’s no denying the technical craftsmanship of these stories, Patti. Edith Pearlman is a master short story writer. I just found her sensibility a bit off-putting to me. The fault is probably mine.
Sometimes, a story collection is improved by a little lightening up, an entry here and there of something less grim, or at least less demanding. Authors who display no wit, no sense of humor, or at least a willingness to share a little sunshine now and then are heard to read very much of, story after story. It’s one of the things I love about Graham Greene’s stories. Even when there’s no obvious humor, there is the feeling, sometimes, that the author’s mouth is quirked up at the corner.
Exactly, Rick! Graham Greene is the perfect example for the variety of tones and sensibilities of Life. I found Edith Pearlman’s stories, though technically dazzling, a bit too edgy for my taste.
I already reserved the GIRL RAISED BY ALLIGATORS book, which seems more up my alley, but I may check this one out too.
You’ll like SWAMPLANDIA!, Jeff. BINOCULAR VISION collects the best stories of Edith Pearlman. If they’re to your taste, then the book is a treasure-trove!