Speaking With the Angel : Book Review

"Speaking with the Angel" is a captivating anthology edited by the renowned author Nick Hornby. It consists of twelve short stories written by various talented authors, each delivering a unique and engaging narrative. From tales of love and loss to stories of hope and redemption, this collection offers a diverse range of emotions and perspectives.

One of the standout stories in the anthology is "NippleJesus" by Nick Hornby himself. The narrative follows a former bouncer who unexpectedly finds himself working as a museum guard, responsible for protecting a controversial artwork depicting Jesus. This gripping story skillfully explores themes of prejudice, personal growth, and the transformative power of art to challenge our beliefs.

Another highlight is "The Slave" by Zadie Smith, an emotionally resonant story that delves into the complex dynamics between a talented young poet and his overbearing manager. Smith's writing engages the reader as it delves into the heartfelt exploration of friendship, ambition, and the sacrifices one may make in the pursuit of success.

The anthology also includes stories by other notable authors such as Roddy Doyle, Irvine Welsh, and Dave Eggers, each contributing their own distinctive style and perspective. Whether it is the dark humor of Welsh's "After I Was Thrown in the River and Before I Drowned" or the poignant realism of Doyle's "Crocodile Tears," each story in this collection leaves a lasting impression.

Through the diverse range of narratives presented in "Speaking with the Angel," Nick Hornby offers readers a thought-provoking and entertaining reading experience. This anthology exemplifies Hornby's talent for curating engaging stories that delve into the depths of the human condition, capturing moments of both joy and despair. Overall, this book is a must-read for fans of contemporary fiction seeking a collection that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

What are readers saying?

"Speaking with the Angel" by Nick Hornby has garnered a range of responses from readers. The book, consisting of a collection of short stories curated by Hornby himself, has been praised by many for its distinctive blend of writing styles and themes. Readers appreciate the diversity in narrative voices and find the characters and stories thought-provoking and engaging. Some even consider it a must-read for fans of the genre.

However, there are also readers who express disappointment with the book. Some stories are perceived as lacking depth and failing to resonate with readers, leaving them wanting more. Certain characters are difficult to connect with, and the overall execution of the stories is seen as lacking. These readers believe that despite the good intentions behind the collection, it falls short of its full potential.

Another point of contention among readers is the varying quality of the stories. Some contributions are deemed outstanding and memorable, while others are considered forgettable or unremarkable. This discrepancy in quality leads to mixed feelings about the book as a whole.

Additionally, some readers are disappointed with the lack of cohesion or an overarching theme in the collection. They expect a more unified reading experience and feel disoriented by the abrupt shifts in tone and style between stories, making it challenging to fully immerse themselves in the book.

Despite the mixed reviews, many readers still find "Speaking with the Angel" worth reading due to its variety of voices and the talent of the contributing authors. While some stories may not resonate with all readers, there are undoubtedly hidden gems to be discovered within the collection.

SpeakingWiththeAngel BookRecommendation MustRead