Drowning in Gruel
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Book Overview
Acclaimed short-story master George Singleton follows the lives and schemes of the citizens of fictitious Gruel, South Carolina, in search of glory, seclusion, money, revenge, and a meaningful existence. In these nineteen tales, young Gruelites learn lessons when confronted with neighbors who might not be as blind as they appear, dermatologists intent on eradicating birthmarks, and fathers prone to driving on half-inflated tires in order to flirt with cashiers. Meanwhile, the town's older citizens try to make sense out of dogs that heal wounds, lawn-mowing dead men, wives who don't appreciate gas masks for Valentine's Day, and children who mix their mother's ashes with housepaint. Hilarious and tragic, George Singleton's unforgettable characters try to overcome their limitations as best they can.
Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0156030616
ISBN13:9780156030618
Release Date:June 2006
Publisher:Houghton Mifflin
Length:320 Pages
Weight:0.75 lbs.
Dimensions:0.8" x 5.2" x 8.0"
Related Subjects
Contemporary Fiction Humor Humor & Entertainment Literature & Fiction Romance Short StoriesCustomer Reviews
2 ratings
Gruel Also Rises
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 18 years ago
This book is full of whacky, funny short stories that gently poke fun at the sleepy, small, southern, ficticious town of Gruel, South Carolina. I enjoyed this collection because, having spent most of my life living in the deep south, I have an appreciation of the absurd and this book serves up heaping helpings of it. Singleton's ability to create rediculous situations with a deadpan delivery makes the read quite fun. Also the stories are rich with authentic details that ring true of the southern personality. So put a flamingo in your front yard and read Drowning in Gruel!
a star with flaws
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 18 years ago
If that ain't a description of all of the people "Drowning in Gruel," then I don't know what is... After his foray into the Novel, George has returned to his roots... If you're a fan, you will recognize a lot of the characters in this collection, and if you're just starting with George, this'll be a great beginning... I know I've said that every previous book has been the best so far, and I meant it! George Singleton just keeps getting better, and proving his mastery of the short story, and the novel, with every new book! George, we're still waiting for the book of prose... Sean
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