The Great American Everything

The Great American Everything is a short story collection that explores the boundaries of contemporary family and how we move forward in a world often changed by loss. It is praised by Kevin Wilson as "an exceptional collection that introduces us to an exciting new voice." The stories are set in various landscapes of the South and deal with themes such as aging, adoption, loss, and class. The collection is for fans of Amy Hempel and Rick Moody and considers what makes a family, however makeshift or impromptu its design.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 21 September 2023
Publisher: Hub City Press

A captivating short story collection delves into the intricate dynamics of contemporary families and their resilience in the face of constant change. Praised by Kevin Wilson as "an exceptional collection that introduces us to an exciting new voice," The Great American Everything revolves around the experiences of relationships, spanning from brother-to-brother, sister-to-sister, and patient-to-caregiver. Crafted with tenderness and a keen insight, these ten captivating stories delve into the ways families navigate the complexities of aging, adoption, loss, and class. A young woman tasked with providing accompaniment services to an elderly individual confronts the boundaries of complicity and friendship, while two brothers embark on a quest to uncover the details of their recently deceased grandfather in the vast desert. A college student faces her abuser during a door-to-door fundraising campaign, adding another layer of depth to the narratives. For fans of Amy Hempel and Rick Moody, these stories, set across diverse landscapes of the South, from Memphis to New Orleans, explore the profound influence of the places we call home on our trust and protection within our families.

Scott Gloden, the author of this remarkable collection, has assembled a precise and moving exploration of what constitutes a family, regardless of its makeshift or impromptu nature. His storytelling prowess brings these characters to life, eliciting a range of emotions and provoking thought. Notably, Scott Gloden has been awarded the prestigious C. Michael Curtis Short Story Book Prize, further testament to his talent and dedication to the craft of short fiction.

In conclusion, The Great American Everything is a must-read for anyone seeking a profound and immersive exploration of contemporary family dynamics. Through its tender and insightful narratives, this collection offers a glimpse into the resilience and strength of families in the face of change. Scott Gloden's exceptional storytelling and the C. Michael Curtis Short Story Book Prize recognition make this a standout contribution to the world of short fiction.

Weight: 266g
Dimension: 140 x 215 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9798885740128