4 out of 4 stars
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Short stories can really be full of entertaining fictional stories. The diverse short stories capture the world from different point of view. The novel Illustrated Short Fiction by William H. Coles is fictional collection of thirty three short stories, a novella and two graphic novels. Every story has a different character, setting, plot and styles of writing. The stories are well thought out, fascinating and deeply memorable. Additionally, diverse themes are discussed in each of the stories within the book. There is an interrelationship with the themes discussed in the novel. The interrelationship of the themes discussed in the novel created a cohesiveness in the novel as a whole.
I loved the character growth in most of the stories in the novel. The behavior of the characters in most stories matures as the narration progresses. I believe that was excellent. Character development in the stories instils virtues and values amongst the readers. It teaches the readers that good deeds are appreciated in the society whereas bad morals are shunned.
Additionally, I loved the themes discussed by the author in the various stories. The author discusses themes including marriage and family life, teen relationships, social discrimination and the place of women in the society just to mention a few. The themes depict the situation in the real-life society. They reflect the events that transpires in the society today. The stories in the novel were thus a hindsight to the societal problems. They offer new solutions to the readers on how to go different situations in the society. I was moved by how the author proposes the elimination of social discrimination in the story titled ‘The Indelible Myth’. He proposes that the victims and aggressors to a discrimination should be subjected through counselling sessions and encouraged to take part in similar outdoor activities. That would enable them to understand each other situation and capabilities better. I believe such was an excellent approach to solving social discrimination.
I also loved suspense used by the author in coming up with the stories. Each and every story is filled with suspense at its boiling point. There is ensuing suspense around the major events in each short story. I must admit, the suspense therein increased desire to learn about the fate of the leading characters in each story. Suspense made the stories more interesting. Other styles employed by the author in coming up with this novel include, imagery, vivid descriptions, dialogue and comedy. These styles as well enhanced the taste of the novel.
There is nothing I disliked in this book. I rate it at 4 out of 4 stars. I gave it four stars because the stories were thought provoking, beautiful and interesting. I really enjoyed reading them. It is the reason why I recommend this book to all persons who love fictional novels. Believe you me, such readers will enjoy this book. Persons with no interest in short story fictions may look for other novels. This book is exceptionally well edited.
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Illustrated Short Fiction of William H. Coles: 2000-2016
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