March 7, 2010
Copenhagen
by Katrine Marie Guldager (Book Thug, 2009, Translated from the Danish by P.K. Brask)
Eleven short stories that twist geographically, socially, restlessly, and perspicaciously through the city. Often mundane, then suddenly tragic, related with a matter-of-factness that is also forgiving. You can read all 82 pages in one sitting, which for that reason (and the fragility of the characters and also the unassailable whiteness of Copenhagen) makes me want to compare the book to a stack of rice cakes. In a good way. I like rice cakes. Or else I wouldn’t be recommending the book.
$20
January 14, 2010
Stories in the Worst Way
by Gary Lutz (Calamari, 2009 – Knopf, 1966)
$15
October 2, 2009
Philosophie Thinly Clothed
by Heather Folsom (Cadmus, 2003)
Heather’s deceptively simple tales and allegories comprise some of the most satisfying literature I’ve read this year. I felt like I was reading bedtime stories to my inner child. Fantastic without being phantasmagorical, wise without boasting. They took me to a new, weird place without resorting to obvious escapism.
$13.95
September 29, 2009
The Taker
by Rubem Fonesca (Open Letter, 2008, Translation from the Portuguese)
I recommended this to a friend, but he couldn’t finish because the killing was so brutal, blatant, and sustained. But that’s Rio de Janeiro for you, according to Fonesca, and hideous class war that might make you question your loyalties.
$15.95
September 28, 2009
Economics
by Fanny Howe (Flood Editions, 2002)
$14