Like Chocolates

Some books, more specifically short story collections, are like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get. And I found myself thinking this about Leading The Dance, by Sarah Salway this week.

You see, I never read the stories in collections in order. I don’t know why, I just don’t. Last week, after many weeks of dipping in to it, I realised that sadly I was nearing the end. I probably only had one or two stories left to read, though, as I’d not read it in order, I didn’t know how many.

So, like those last few chocolates in a box you’ve really loved, I tried to save them. You know, as a treat. I didn’t want to be greedy and scoff them all in no time. And I didn’t want to lift the lid and see how many (or few) I had left. I wanted to enjoy them. And enjoy them I did but…

The box is empty now, and I’m disappointed.

I want more.

I loved the first book (Something Beginning With) of Sarah’s I read. And I love this, I think, as much. It is, I think, the best collection of short stories I’ve read. It’s delicate and tender in places, and heart twistingly sad in others. It’s not short on laughs either. And if there’s one thing that’s present right the way through the book it’s the uncanny way that you can empathise with or recognise almost all of the characters.

It is expertly written and hugely enjoyable. The prose sparkles mostly, while at times it is nothing short of dazzling. And touching.

A fantastic collection.

PS I don’t seem to be able to post a pic of the cover here at the moment. I’ll try again later.

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PPS

I know some of you who know me will know that I can’t actually eat chocolates. But I used to be able to and therefore remember how it feels. So there.

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And how cool is this? How nice are some writers? If you’ve been following the Comments bits on recent threads you’ll know that I’ve been after some colour coded index cards, but haven’t been able to find any.

How happy was I to receive some in the post this morning from the extremely lovely and hugely talented Emma!

Thank you so much! They’re perfect!

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Nik Perring is a short story writer, author, teacher of writing, and editor from the UK. His books include the widely celebrated Not So Perfect (Roastbooks, 2010), and A Book of Beautiful Words (2014). He co-wrote Freaks! (TFP/HarperCollins 2012), and A Book of Beautiful Trees is out in 2015.

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  1. Is that a new, fetching photo of you Nik, looking like Blackadder brooding? Or have I just not noticed it before?Poor you with (or rather, without) the chocolate. And it’s so good for you too.

  2. Yes, that’s a new pic. Blackadder – well, I’ve not heard that before! (I don’t think I really look like John Duttine from the BBC Day of the Triffids either – though my beloved had a very good laugh about that when a certain Welshcake mentioned it. I’ll see if this gets a similar reaction…)I’ve learned to live without choccy. It is certainly not good for me! Which is a shame. Could be worse though.Hope you’re well!Nik

  3. Hi. First time visiting your site. Interesting, informative and funny… thanks! Best bit was the picture of you with the Brownies. I don’t think I have ever seen anyone look so out of place, than a grown up man in a group of smiley brownies… it made me smile! Have you read The Wild Places – Robert Macfarlane. I’ve just finished it.. really enjoyable read. Jane

  4. Hi Jane, thanks for stopping by.Thrilled you liked what you saw here.I can see what you mean about the Brownies pic – it was really great fun though and I think I was much happier than the photo suggests!I’ll check out the recommendation. Thanks.Best wishes,Nik.

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