Devon Book Club discussion

From time to time, I have begun to enjoy reading a short story when between novels. My recommendations so far are: After Rain by William Trevor, Dear Life: Stories by Alice Monroe and Jigs & Reels: Stories by Joanne Harris. Any other suggestions out there? I need to find a new collection!

Angela wrote: "From time to time, I have begun to enjoy reading a short story when between novels. My recommendations so far are: After Rain by William Trevor, Dear Life: Stories by ..."

Some of the work by Annie Proulx like Postcards are brilliant. Also, some of Chekhov Anton Pavlovich 1860-1904; must be others - cant think at present.

Angela wrote: "From time to time, I have begun to enjoy reading a short story when between novels. My recommendations so far are: After Rain by William Trevor, Dear Life: Stories by ..."

I recently re-read Kate Atkinson's collection of short stories Not the End of the World, which I really like. In particular, I am a fan of her use of recurring characters and repeated moments between the separate stories.

I also read Neil Gaiman's second collection of short stories Fragile Things: Short Fictions and Wonders whilst on holiday this year. That also comes highly recommended.

I also like Neil Gaiman's Smoke and Mirrors- his first book of short stories. Have added Fragile things to my 'want to read list'.

Thank you for all the suggestions that have been mentioned so far - plenty of interest there. I've also just read a very positive review of Rose Tremain's recently published collection of short stories: The American Lover.

Did you know (I did not until yesterday) that this week is National Short Story Week? It runs from 17th to 23rd, so that was a well-timed discussion thread that was opened up.

There is more on http://www.nationalshortstoryweek.org...

Jon wrote: "Did you know (I did not until yesterday) that this week is National Short Story Week? It runs from 17th to 23rd, so that was a well-timed discussion thread that was opened up.

There is more on htt..."

I didn't but thanks for the link - will have a look

Hadn't realised it is National Short story Week! Here's another recommendation: Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlivesa brilliant collection by David Eagle man.

"Short stories consume you faster. They’re connected to brevity. With the short story, you are up against mortality. – Ali Smith"

I left for work in the dark and got home after dark. Winter's on the way. BUT to cheer me up and bring some light to the shortening day this year's copy of "Short Fiction" was waiting for me. This annual publication from Plymouth University showcases short stories, but also gives them a visual edge.

Each year, from Sept-Dec, submissions of previously unpublished work are invited (with a £1000 prize for the winning entry) and the selected stories are published in this volume. No more than 5000 words, the stories are wide-ranging in their themes and are wonderfully creative. This year's publication was co-edited by Tom Vowler, who takes over as Editor for the next issue. Tom is himself an award winning author and is an associate lecturer at Plymouth University.

You can find out more about the book, and details of how to submit your work if you like to write short stories, at http://www.shortfictionjournal.co.uk/

Right, off to the armchair with my copy. I may be some time....

I have to admit that I didn't even know about this publication, but what a great chance for authors to get their short work out there! I may look at trying to get a piece in there myself next year...

In the past, I have struggled with short fiction, as both a writer and reader. But when I discovered the work of HP Lovecraft, my mind was changed completely. Writing a short if an art form, being able to create something with just as much - if not more - impact than a full length novel.

I wrote my first short earlier this year, a B-movie-esque monster story, and am hoping to one day have it published. I found it more challenging than writing my novel!

I have also just been working on a new short that will be debuting for free on Halloween, but as the story kept growing and growing it is now officially a novelette, at just over 14,000 words.

If anyone would be interested in taking a look at it, let me know and I can post the link when it goes live on Saturday

Chris wrote: "I have to admit that I didn't even know about this publication, but what a great chance for authors to get their short work out there! I may look at trying to get a piece in there myself next year...."

I'd love to see it Chris. Be great if you posted it in the writers section. I agree that writing a short story is an art form in itself. Isn't the shortest short story something like "For sale. Baby's shoes. Never worn".

I also love the work of William Trevor (After Rain) and Annie Proulx

Ive not read HP Lovecraft - must do so on the strength of your recommendation

Ian, you can buy the Delphi edition of the complete works of H P Lovecraft for only £1.47 http://www.amazon.co.uk/Delphi-Comple...
It's a fascinating collection as the stories appear in chronological order, the first one being written when Lovecraft was only seven years old. As one reads the stories one can watch his skills develop as he becomes one of the greatest ever horror/scifi witers.
The Delphi range of 'complete works' is excellent. For an insignificant amout of money I've acquired a collection of hundreds of classic novels - and unlike other inexpensive reproductions, the formatting is impeccable.

B J wrote: "Ian, you can buy the Delphi edition of the complete works of H P Lovecraft for only £1.47 http://www.amazon.co.uk/Delphi-Comple......"
Thanks. Ill go check it out

I have really enjoyed two anthologies for short stories by German women writers, recently translated into English. They're very different in tone and style, but both reflect the social and political upheavals of the last 80ish years, seen from the perspective of a 'normal person' in East Germany.
Very interesting slices through thought-provoking lives.

Snow Flurries and Other Stories
A Contented Man and Other Stories

Rowena wrote: "I have really enjoyed two anthologies for short stories by German women writers, recently translated into English. They're very different in tone and style, but both reflect the social and politica..."

Thanks Rowena - short stories can be incredibly powerful cant they