Reviews

The Collected Stories by Leonard Michaels

ericfheiman's review against another edition

5.0

After finishing Stories (and not so long ago, Michaels' short autobiographical novel, Sylvia), I'm surprised that the author isn't more universally celebrated. It could be his ambitious and experimental variations on Philip Roth's eros/thanatos obsessions don't sit well in these politically correct times. Or that Michaels simply didn't produce enough work to warrant entry into the elite 20th century canon. Regardless, these are visceral and immediate stories that are all too rare these days.

lucasmiller's review against another edition

5.0

I read The Collected Stories occasionally over about a year. These stories range from ebullient to lethargic and always carry, at their core, a tough kernel of sadness that transforms commonplace observation into surprisingly insightful moments. I don't know why Michaels isn't more widely known and read, or why he isn't mentioned more often as an influence on innumerable short authors today. Highly recommended.

melanie_reads's review against another edition

5.0

Michaels' short stories are amazing. I had never heard of him until I read a book review about this collection. Seemed like the type of writer I would enjoy and I was not disappointed. I'm especially fond of his use of metaphors, descriptions and adjectives - pleasantly surprising!