"Black Friday and Selected Stories" by David Goodis is an engaging collection of six gripping noir tales that transport readers into the gritty and haunting world of mid-20th century Philadelphia. Each story delves deep into the complexities of human emotions and explores the dark desires that lurk within us all. Through his masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions, Goodis creates a sense of unease and suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The title story, "Black Friday," follows a down-on-his-luck war veteran who gets caught up in a web of deception and violence after witnessing a murder. Goodis skillfully explores themes of identity and redemption, leaving readers questioning the true nature of the characters and their motivations.
Other stories, like "The Professional Man" and "A Piece of Wood," offer equally captivating narratives that delve into the depths of human nature. Goodis effortlessly creates flawed, yet relatable characters, making it easy for readers to empathize with their struggles and moral dilemmas.
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The author's writing style is gripping and concise, with each word serving a purpose in building the atmosphere and propelling the plot forward. Goodis paints a vivid picture of the noir setting, skillfully bringing the seedy underbelly of Philadelphia to life through his evocative descriptions.
In conclusion, "Black Friday and Selected Stories" is a compelling collection that showcases David Goodis' mastery of the noir genre. Fans of crime fiction and atmospheric storytelling will find themselves captivated by these dark and haunting tales that delve deeply into the complexities of human nature.
What are readers saying?
David Goodis' book "Black Friday and Selected Stories" has garnered a range of responses from readers, with opinions on the book's quality and appeal diverse. The collection of stories has an average rating of 3.73 stars out of 5, indicating mixed reviews.
Many readers commend Goodis' writing style, noting its atmospheric and gritty tone. They admire the author's exploration of the darker side of human nature and his ability to create complex characters. The title story, "Black Friday," is particularly well-received for its suspenseful plot and compelling narrative. Some readers even believe that Goodis' writing was ahead of its time, influencing the noir genre.
However, there are readers who feel that the stories lack depth and fail to fully engage them. Some reviewers find the pacing of certain stories uneven, with rushed or unresolved plots. Additionally, a few readers struggle to connect with the characters, impacting their overall enjoyment of the book.
A criticism mentioned by some readers is the limited diversity in the book's characters and settings. They note that the stories predominantly focus on white, male protagonists, neglecting other perspectives and experiences.
Despite the mixed reception, many readers acknowledge the merits of "Black Friday and Selected Stories" and believe it is a worthwhile read for noir fiction enthusiasts. The book's dark and brooding atmosphere, along with Goodis' distinctive writing style, appeal to those who enjoy gritty and atmospheric storytelling.
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