Bang Crunch

Bang Crunch

by NeilSmith (Author)

Synopsis

A support group for people who suspect their benign nature has caused benign tumours to grow inside them; a girl with Fred Hoyle syndrome whose age expands and contracts like the universe; a recently widowed woman talks to her husband's ashes, which are entombed in a hollowed-out curling stone; a store detective's valiant act to save a pair of pink calfskin gloves is entwined with the unfortunate results of an unsuccessful space mission, and a teenage boy is forced to confront his feelings for his best friend when he sees a day-glo guinea-pig in an exhibition. Unexpected humour and tenderness intertwine with loneliness and hopefulness in this remarkable book from an already acclaimed writer. In nine richly varied stories, written in intense, clear-eyed prose, the reader is led into an exploration of the human need for connection, however tenuous or absurd, and at whatever cost. The stories operate with heartbreaking precision, drawing us past the surface of characters' lives and into the moments of decision and recognition that shape these people irrevocably. Rendering grief, loneliness, hope, love and happiness with exquisite subtlety and intelligence, Neil Smith proves himself an able chronicler of the human condition. BANG CRUNCH constitutes a significant achievement by a powerful new writer.

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More Information

Format: Paperback
Pages: 256
Publisher: Phoenix
Published: 30 Oct 2008

ISBN 10: 0753824442
ISBN 13: 9780753824443
Book Overview: Remarkable, unforgettable short stories: quirky, wise, heartwarming - showcasing an exceptional talent Neil Smith has won the Eden Mills Writers' Festival, been honourably mentioned at the National Magazine Awards, and receivd three Journey Prize nominations His work has appeared in many North American publications BANG CRUNCH has received exceptional reviews: 'A rare fusion of thematic boldness, humour, gravity, empathy, maturity and first-rate prose' Guardian 'Neil Smith finds beauty amid tragedy, delicately coaxing humanity - even humour - out of despair ... BANG CRUNCH heralds the exciting arrival of an original narrative voice' Financial Times 'BANG CRUNCH is a wonder. Devastatingly witty, heartfelt and wise. You must read this book' Miriam Toews, author of 'A Complicated Kindness' 'Smith's numerous talents collapse the distance between maniacal violence and the insecurities and inadequacies beneath the surface of daily life' Globe and Mail 'Amazing... Smith's debut collection presents readers with a delicious problem: whether to savour the book by spreading out the feast over several days or gorge on them all at once' Quill & Quire

Media Reviews
However odd his characters' behaviour, Smith invokes our sympathy for them... very funny, yet very moving TIMES These are stories that misbehave... their greatest trick is to remain so full of feeling INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY
Author Bio
Neil Smith has published widely in Canadian journals and magazines. He has received a number of literary awards, and has been nominated three times for the prestigious Journey Prize. BANG CRUNCH is his first story collection.