The Tree Stand

by Jay Atkinson

Most of the fiction I write grows out of my observations as a journalist. I go looking for a certain type of story, and often end up finding two of them. The first kind is comprised of the facts, and the second illustrates the deeper meaning of those facts. My story, “The Tree Stand”, which opens this collection, arose when I was walking along a dirt road in New Hampshire to scout a lake. I keep busy writing outdoor narratives for magazines, and on that winter afternoon I was searching for a remote spot for a pond hockey story. An out-of-work carpenter who lived nearby and was selling his house originally mistook me for a realtor, and we struck up a conversation. It was during a severe economic downturn and the carpenter told me about his impending divorce and the difficult conditions that had thus far prevented him from selling their house. In a quiet voice, he shared a number of personal details, and his recitation of those facts soon transcended their literal interpretation. It was a story of gritty persistence tinged with regret and an equal measure of resolve, along with the sort of reluctant compromises―Hobson’s choices, really―that a significant percentage of human beings must accept in order to get by. Over the next few years, I heard or experienced stories about other working class people confronted by similar choices, and all those details led to the bartenders, building contractors, cops, farmers, fire fighters, realtors, rugby players, struggling musicians, and waitresses who fill the pages of this book.

324 pages, Hardcover

First published October 20, 2022

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a bit of a character sketch, examining the lives of blue collar and other hard working folks in times of instability and a tough economy. Most are set in the recent past, but also feel relevant today.

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

A pretty good collection. There are better anthologies out there, but this one is worthwhile. This author has written multiple books, and understands how to create a good story.

Thanks very much for the free review copy for review!!

[Ed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent writing. Each and every short story leaves you wanting for more.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A collection of short stories that are thought provoking, somewhat depressing but definitely worth the read. Well written and thought provoking.