Rafael Has Pretty Eyes

Elaine McCluskey's latest collection, Rafael Has Pretty Eyes, is a collection of seventeen stories that follow characters who have reached a four-way stop in life. The stories are experimental, provocative, and often about those living on the margins, exploring the absurdity and interconnectedness of a life adrift.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 254 pages
Publication date: 29 March 2022
Publisher: Goose Lane Editions

Elaine McCluskey's latest collection, Rafael Has Pretty Eyes, is a captivating exploration of seventeen characters who have reached a pivotal point in their lives. Some are contemplating whether to adhere to the signs or defy them, while others are faced with the unsettling realization of a sinkhole forming beneath their feet. The stories, set in the Maritimes but with a broader scope, delve into the lives of individuals living on the margins, showcasing McCluskey's experimental and provocative style.

Through her sharp and compassionate storytelling, McCluskey delves into the absurdity and interconnectedness of a life adrift. The characters are complex and multifaceted, with their struggles and triumphs reflecting the complexities of human experience. From a former fast-talking radio host who has transitioned to a life of payday lending in a strip mall to a football wide receiver working the night shift as a bouncer while recovering from his third concussion, each character is a unique portrayal of someone navigating the challenges of modern life.

What sets Rafael Has Pretty Eyes apart is its ability to explore the human condition with a sense of humor and without resorting to sentimentality. McCluskey's writing is smart, concise, and unsparing, capturing the essence of her characters with precision and depth. The stories are often about the margins, the overlooked and the forgotten, and McCluskey's portrayal of these individuals is both empathetic and revealing.

Through her exploration of the absurdity and interconnectedness of life, McCluskey offers a poignant reflection on the human experience. Rafael Has Pretty Eyes is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to connect with readers on a profound level. Whether you are drawn to the experimental nature of the writing or the relatable characters, this collection is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Weight: 284g
Dimension: 128 x 202 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781773101637