Metamorphosis: Selected Stories

Penelope Lively's collection of short stories, Metamorphosis, is a definitive selection of her greatest works, curated by the author herself. The stories explore the human experience, from growing up and growing old to chance encounters and life-long relationships, and showcase Lively's keen insight into the ways individuals can become tangled in history. The collection includes new and never-before-published stories as well as forgotten treasures, and is praised for its wit, compassion, and brilliance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 04 August 2022
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Penelope Lively is a master storyteller.
Penelope Lively is a renowned author who has crafted a collection of short stories that delve into the depths of human experience. With her witty and compassionate storytelling, Lively explores the complexities of life, from childhood to adulthood, chance encounters to lifelong relationships. Through her vivid prose, she reveals the intricate web of history that binds individuals and the profound impact of even the smallest actions.

This definitive selection of short stories, curated by Lively herself, includes both new and never-before-published pieces, as well as forgotten treasures that showcase her exceptional talent. From the poignant portrayal of a young girl's coming-of-age in "The Road to Rome" to the bittersweet exploration of love and loss in "The House in Paris," each story is a testament to Lively's ability to capture the essence of the human condition.

Lively's writing is characterized by its transparency and brilliance. She has a rare gift for peeling back the layers of her characters and presenting them to the reader in a way that is both translucent and gleaming. Her prose is filled with vivid imagery and rich metaphors, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world of her stories.

Throughout her career, Lively has received critical acclaim for her work. The Sunday Telegraph praised her as "a master storyteller," while The Times described her writing as "as good as it gets." The Daily Mail hailed her as "a master storyteller with guts and style," and The Guardian noted her "acute social observation and sharp wit."

In conclusion, Penelope Lively's collection of short stories, Metamorphosis, is a testament to her exceptional talent as a writer. With her witty and compassionate storytelling, Lively explores the complexities of human experience, revealing the profound impact of even the smallest actions. Her prose is filled with vivid imagery and rich metaphors, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world of her stories. Whether you are a fan of short fiction or seeking a literary masterpiece, this collection is sure to captivate and inspire.

Weight: 238g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241514771