You Haven’t Changed a Bit: Stories

by Astrid Blodgett

Fully fledged characters positively crackle in the deliciously realistic situations of these thirteen short stories.

Genres: Short Stories

184 pages, Paperback

First published March 15, 2013

Reviews

[Ellen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know the author and I was very interested to read her short stories. I wasn't able to finish the book at this time, because her descriptions are too accurate and clear for me at this point in time. After years of working in Children's Services, I visited all of these families and places, and got to know these people and their stories. It's a little bit like Astrid was looking over my shoulder! I'll return to finish the book at a later date.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each of these short stories is a gem, unique and individual. The characters are everyday people with everyday problems that are beautifully developed. The dialogue is fresh and real. I have not been a reader of short stories, but Astrid Blodgett has made me a convert.

[Sionainn · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 *

[Betty Hegerat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This debut collection of stories is so well-honed, so perfectly polished, that it speaks of an author who knows her craft. Not a word wasted, each character vividly alive with the barest of description. Ordinary folks, just going about ordinary business, and yet an undertone of menace in each one that made me want to shout -- no, don't go out on the ice! don't seek out that old friend!
I can't name a favourite in this collection; each one made me hold my breath, and each so distinctive that they defied comparison. I'm still hoping for some redemption for Blodgett's characters. But not optimistic.

[Kelsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful stories--a wonderful collection. Another commenter here on Goodreads mentioned that the story that stuck with them the most was "Let's Go Straight to the Lake"--that's the one that I haven't been able to stop thinking about either. (Perhaps in part because I read it AT Slave Lake, where it takes place! But also because the characters seem so horrifyingly and heartbreakingly real, and you can FEEL the tension and discomfort and sticky heat.) It's also a short collection, easily devourable.

[Luise · Rating 5 out of 5]

A collection of gripping, moving, suspenseful stories that draw you in from the first sentence. Blodgett is a very talented local writer; every story is strong, no weak parts to this collection. I was blown away by the quality of her writing (why do we never expect greatness from local people?); she makes you feel/sense the vulnerability of her characters, creates masterfully crafted but seemingly effortless sketches that can evoke an atmosphere, a feeling of menace or dread in just a few paragraphs. Highly recommended!

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I tried so hard to read each story and then savour it before moving onto the next but I was like an addict inhaling each one and desperate for the next. My favourite was Let's Go Straight To The Lake. I was so uncomfortable the whole time I was reading it as though I was there in the sticky heat. Brilliant!

[Ann Douglas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smart and intriguing short stories that force the reader to connect the dots and look beyond the obvious. Complex characters grapple with intriguing situations. An amazing debut from a very talented writer.

[Alexis · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent collection of stories.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book