#220 The Red Ant House- Ann Cummins
I don’t know if I’m just reading too many short stories, or
if I didn’t connect with this author, but this one didn’t do much for me. It’s
a peek-into-a-life type of story, but nothing much happens. I don’t see any meaning
or plot point worthy of mention.
The scene about the children counting the bean jar at the
birthday party I found somewhat touching. It’s almost as if the author had that
memory and built a story around that moment—which is common for authors to do—but
then found that was the only fresh ingredient in the cupboard.
Perhaps, the opposite is true, perhaps there was too much to
say, and this should be developed into a longer piece, with this as the opening
salvo. I also felt a bit of a disconnect, as I often do when a story is written
in the voice of a child. Too often adult judgment slips into that voice and it
rings hollow. I’m not sure, juts something didn’t work for me.
The good thing about short stories, when you don’t care for
one, another is right there waiting.
No comments:
Post a Comment