Proulx writes wonderful prose - simple in structure and very descriptive. She paces the stories wonderfully, fleshing out some details and leaving others to be filled in by the reader. There is a slight tendency to sentimentality and predictability in the plots, but then short stories always tend to the formulaic because of the danger of wasting precious words on exposition.

The subject matter is all very familiar to readers of Proulx - rural America (particularly New England in this collection), family, pick-up trucks, the outdoors, seasons. I'd recommend this book for its simple, engaging stories and brooding, slightly ominous mood. ( )

A collection of stories about the residents of a ruined New England countryside whose lives seem like tattered rag ends less wholesome than many an Appalachian story. There are no chances for futures here. ( )

These stories are well crafted, with wonderful characterisation, and fantastic descriptions, but I can't say I really liked them. On the whole they are about unhappy people, most with unhappy relationships, some end oddly, and all made me feel rather gloomy. If they weren't so well written, and original, I would have given it a much lower rating. They are great examples of good writing, but not something to cosy up with and enjoy. ( )

Proulx evokes the unchanging rhythms of country life with a deep appreciation of life lived close to the earth.

Short stories about blue-collar New England. Well written. ( )