St. Lucy's Home for Girls Raised by Wolves

Somewhat uneven. I had read a couple of these stories in the New Yorker and Zoetrope, and on re-reading them, those are still as brilliant as I originally thought. The titular story is also brilliant. But some of the other stories are a little disappointing, if only because I had such high expectations. Overall a great read though, and I'm excited to read more from this author.

I could not finish this book, hence the 1-star rating.

Russell is highly imaginative and has good ideas. The characters were different and quirky, and I liked how the setting of each short story (that I read) was engaging and kept me wanting more. And that's what I wanted - more - but in a bad, bad way. Overall, the stories always had something lacking.

It felt like Russell found a fool-proof formula on how to write a good short story, so she kept on applying it, and unfortunately, it got old very quickly. I had to put the book down after reading the first four, her author voice became stale and painful to read as I went on.

The fourth story was also disgustingly crude. I could not see myself enjoying the rest of the book.

Would not recommend.

Another difficult to rate.
There were bits I liked. Bits I liked a lot. The magical. The understanding... Karen moves with ease between all kinds of people... I find her people believable.
Then there were bits I didn't like. Like 12 years old having sex.
The culture shock of the first story, about the alligator farm. Or, what culture. People have been pushed so far out from the society they don't have any culture, any traditions beyond two generations, any memories or ancestors, any connection with anything... it's horrifying.
The bullies.
But I suppose, all in all, it is amazing. It got a reaction out of me. I responded emotionally, strongly. It was easy to read.