Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Book Review: Why the Long Face? by Ron MacLean

Most short story collections are usually a grab-bag; some good, some bad, some obviously just included to fill out the page count.

Why the Long Face? is the exception to the rule. Ron Maclean's collection of short stories vary in their style, subject matter, prose, and impact, yet every story shines as a perfect example of what a short story should be. MacLean's stories convey the emotions of the characters, the longing and suffering, confusion and contemplation, with elegance and skill. The world these stories take place in is eerie, bizarre, almost surrealistic, and yet all too familiar.

Short stories are an art form in themselves. Ron MacLean's Why the Long Face? is truly a work of art.

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