Adultery and Other Choices : Book Review

"Adultery and Other Choices" by Andre Dubus offers a captivating collection of short stories that explores the profound themes of love, relationships, and the consequences of our decisions. Dubus skillfully weaves together intricate narratives, delving into the complexities of human nature and inviting readers to question their own moral compass.

The stories in this collection traverse the delicate terrain of desire, betrayal, and redemption. Through his masterful storytelling, Dubus brings to life a diverse range of characters who grapple with the consequences of their choices. Each story offers a unique perspective on the theme of adultery, from a husband coming to terms with his wife's infidelity to a young woman seeking to understand her own yearnings. With empathy and nuance, Dubus portrays the intricate dynamics of human relationships.

One of the key strengths of "Adultery and Other Choices" lies in Dubus' ability to capture moments of emotional intensity and introspection. His evocative prose immerses readers in the inner world of his characters, allowing us to experience their vulnerabilities and inner struggles firsthand. The stories radiate with a quiet intensity as Dubus explores the far-reaching consequences of passionate choices made.

Furthermore, the characters that populate the pages of this collection are authentic and relatable. Dubus crafts complex and flawed individuals who grapple with their desires and face the repercussions of their actions. By delving deeply into their lives, readers cannot help but empathize with their struggles and ponder the gray areas of morality.

"Adultery and Other Choices" is a thought-provoking book that illuminates the intricacies of human relationships and the choices we make. Dubus' profound understanding of human nature, paired with his masterful storytelling, leaves a lasting impact on readers. Long after closing the book, the stories continue to linger in our minds, urging us to reflect on the complexities of our own lives and the consequences of our own choices.

What are readers saying?

Adultery and Other Choices by Andre Dubus is a collection of short stories that delve into the intricacies of human relationships and the decisions we make. The book has received a range of opinions from readers.

Many readers praised Dubus for his insightful storytelling and realistic depiction of characters. They found his writing engaging and thought-provoking, capable of evoking strong emotions. The stories were described as raw and emotionally powerful, exploring themes of love, desire, and moral dilemmas. Readers admired the author's ability to capture the essence of human nature and the complexities of relationships.

Several reviewers commended specific stories. "The Winter Father" received acclaim for its heartfelt exploration of a father's relationship with his daughter, influenced by divorce. "The Pretty Girl" was also praised for its portrayal of a young woman's struggle with self-image and societal expectations.

However, some readers felt that the stories lacked a strong connection or did not leave a lasting impact. They found the characters unrelatable or uninteresting, making it difficult to fully engage with the narratives. Others mentioned that the stories felt repetitive, as they dealt with similar themes and situations.

Some reviewers also found Dubus' writing style challenging to follow, noting his tendency towards long, meandering sentences. This made it difficult for them to grasp the essence of his stories and connect with the characters on a deeper level.

AdulteryChoices ContemporaryFiction MoralDilemmas