Scan barcode
astridrv's review
challenging
dark
funny
Oh I liked this more than I expected! I am not used to short stories and thought I would read it quickly, but I needed some time to recover from each one. Surprised by how many stories used SF elements, felt a bit like Black Mirror in parts. Mostly, damn, Saunders is inspiring by how effective he is. Not a word wasted. Especially 'Home' was almost bewilderingly quick witted. These stories aren't remarkable as such, but the writing was so engaging to me and the title story left me teary.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Suicide attempt, Torture, Terminal illness, Rape, Sexual violence, and Suicidal thoughts
Minor: War, Blood, Bullying, and Cancer
ahh_listen's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Suicide attempt and Suicide
Moderate: Bullying
Minor: Rape
mthedm's review against another edition
dark
emotional
funny
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Some good stories in here. Saunders routinely uses female suffering to advance the inner lives of his male characters. Women lack agency.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Rape
ellahedman's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Tenth of December is an incredible collection of short stories. Saunders deserves the praise he has gotten from the media and from private reviewers. All of Saunders stories are dark, haunting, emotionally tumultuous, and cause the reader to take a step back momentarily. Some of these stories are hard to stomach. He is a gifted writer who has the ability to create a short story about difficult things. I was recommended this book by an older friend, who specifically pointed out "Semplica Girl Diaries" as the story to read. I wholeheartedly agree that this was the most thought provoking of the stories, but I would not place it above the others. This book is for anyone looking for great writing, provocative content, and intricate characters.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Rape and Slavery
More...