Books, poetry, comics and the literary world of Chicago
In art, it is impossible to truly evaluate anything as the “best.” Although annual anthologies such as the O’Henry Awards can try, the best short stories of the year will always be subjective.
This novel includes some of the most convincing depictions of love and loyalty—pure human affection and kindness—in contemporary literature.
Set in the South, the book jumps back and forth between two protagonists: Gemma, a dreamwalker who walks in the dreams of her dying master, and Layla Hurley, an illustrator who’s prone to mysterious dreams and dreaming.
Gabrielle Zevin’s novel is video games, a form of play in which adults can take part. Non-gamer readers need not worry. Zevin writes video games with a focus on their artistry and learning about games is one of the novel’s pleasures.
Ling Ma’s new collection, “Bliss Montage,” begins with a pampered wife living in a sprawling McMansion followed by seven equally clever and lushly outrageous stories. Like her 2018 award-winning “Severance,” Ma’s meditations on work and relationships are mischievously deep and entertaining.
With new work from some familiar local names, as well as the iconic Printers Row Lit Fest, September is now book month in Chicago.
These are linked tales of loving, dying and growing up.
Herb Cohen was a best-selling author and business man who was all about negotiations: Herb’s rules on life, and his son’s understanding of them, are the centerpiece.
In “Midstream,” we follow Chicago-based protagonist Polly Wainwright through a midlife crisis that involves her unfulfilled dream of becoming a documentary film director, the breakup of a relationship, and the serious illness of her closest friend.
Marriage is one of our most universal institutions, one of life’s most common experiences, but no one understands it.
Copyright Newcity Communications, Inc. © 2022
