Synopsis
How to Make Paper When the World is Ending is a luminous new collection of short stories that deftly examines, explores, and reimagines the ghost story.
A couple sets off on their first long weekend together with romantic-or murderous-intentions. A recently divorced father attempts to jump-start his life by performing as John Lennon in a Beatles cover band. A young woman becomes obsessed with a sweepstakes contest in the wake of her roommate's sudden death.
How to Make Paper When the World Is Ending features literal ghosts, spiritual ghosts, charming ghosts; ghosts that are dead ends and ghosts that are still living; the ghosts of what might yet be and the ghosts of what might have been. How is each of us shaped by what haunts us?
As Entropy Magazine noted of her first collection, Dallas Woodburn is a master of writing stories that "never cease to surprise or carry a wave of emotional impact." With its ambitious scope and resonant themes, How to Make Paper When the World Is Ending is another deeply felt, captivating collection of stories that will linger long after the final page.
How to Make Paper When the World is Ending" is a collection of twelve poignant short stories by Dallas Woodburn that delves into the themes of love, loss, and resilience in a world that is rapidly changing. Each story offers a unique perspective on the challenges and complexities of life during societal and environmental upheaval. The title story follows Lila, a young girl who must cope with the impending destruction of her community due to a wildfire. Through Lila's experience, the reader sees the emotional impact of such events and the importance of hope and purpose in times of adversity.
The collection explores weighty themes such as love, loss, and resilience, with stories like "The Day We Saw the Sun" that follow a young couple's struggle to survive in a world devastated by a catastrophic solar flare. The author's ability to create well-rounded, relatable characters is a strength of the collection. Each character, such as the determined Emma in "Dear Emma," has a unique backstory and voice that makes them feel authentic. The use of evocative and lyrical prose also enhances the reading experience, painting vivid pictures of the settings and characters in each story.
However, some stories feel too familiar, and the heavy focus on environmental themes can feel heavy-handed at times. Characters making speeches about sustainability and conservation can come across as more like authorial messaging than natural dialogue. Nonetheless, the book is a well-crafted and emotionally resonant read that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. The exploration of weighty themes adds depth and resonance to each story, making it a recommended read for those who enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction or character-driven stories that explore the complexities of the human experience.
In conclusion, Dallas Woodburn's How to Make Paper When the World is Ending is an impressive collection of stories that captivates readers with its memorable characters and evocative settings. The exploration of profound themes of love, loss, and resilience adds an emotional depth that resonates with readers. It is a book that will leave a lasting impression on readers long after they finish reading. I highly recommend this book to readers who appreciate character-driven stories that delve into the complexities of human existence, especially those who enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction.
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