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Coulrophobia & Fata Morgana: Stories
In his ninth book and fifth collection of stories, Jacob M. Appel introduces readers to a diplomat's wife who attempts to seduce her chimney sweep through Norwegian lessons, a minister whose dead wife is romantically involved with Greta Garbo, and a landlord menaced by a rent-delinquent mime.
187 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2016
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About the author
Jacob M. Appel
36 books1,593 followers**Please note: A limited number of complimentary electronic copies of several of my books are available for review. Please email me directly if you are interested**
Jacob M. Appel's first novel, The Man Who Wouldn't Stand Up, won the Dundee International Book Award in 2012. His short story collection, Scouting for the Reaper, won the 2012 Hudson Prize. He has published short fiction in more than two hundred literary journals including Agni, Conjunctions, Gettysburg Review, Southwest Review, Virginia Quarterly Review, and West Branch. His work has been short listed for the O. Henry Award (2001), Best American Short Stories (2007, 2008), Best American Essays (2011, 2012), and received "special mention" for the Pushcart Prize in 2006, 2007, 2011 and 2013.
Jacob holds a B.A. and an M.A. from Brown University, an M.A. and an M.Phil. from Columbia University, an M.S. in bioethics from the Alden March Bioethics Institute of Albany Medical College, an M.D. from Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons, an M.F.A. in creative writing from New York University, an M.F.A. in playwriting from Queens College, an M.P.H. from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. He currently practices psychiatry in New York City.
Jacob M. Appel's first novel, The Man Who Wouldn't Stand Up, won the Dundee International Book Award in 2012. His short story collection, Scouting for the Reaper, won the 2012 Hudson Prize. He has published short fiction in more than two hundred literary journals including Agni, Conjunctions, Gettysburg Review, Southwest Review, Virginia Quarterly Review, and West Branch. His work has been short listed for the O. Henry Award (2001), Best American Short Stories (2007, 2008), Best American Essays (2011, 2012), and received "special mention" for the Pushcart Prize in 2006, 2007, 2011 and 2013.
Jacob holds a B.A. and an M.A. from Brown University, an M.A. and an M.Phil. from Columbia University, an M.S. in bioethics from the Alden March Bioethics Institute of Albany Medical College, an M.D. from Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons, an M.F.A. in creative writing from New York University, an M.F.A. in playwriting from Queens College, an M.P.H. from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. He currently practices psychiatry in New York City.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
September 19, 2016
Often when I read a book by an immensely talented yet reasonably unknown author, especially when it's not their first book, I wonder about the randomness of fame. Why is it that some lesser-talented authors continue to see their books catapult to success, time after time, while others whose work is far superior don't get the level of recognition they deserve? I know it has something to do with the publisher they're with, and the publicity they receive, and at times the genre they're writing in might not generate the type of excitement that more bestseller-ready genres do, but it frustrates me sometimes.
I find myself asking this question a lot about authors, and I certainly asked it again when reading Jacob M. Appel's newest story collection, Coulrophobia & Fata Morgana . Here's a writer with so much talent, so much creativity, so much heart, that I just can't figure out why more people aren't saying, "Did you read Jacob Appels latest book?" And this isn't the first book I've red of his—I think I've said the same thing when I read two of his previous story collections last year, Einstein's Beach House and Miracles and Conundrums of the Secondary Planets , which both received honorable mention on my list of the best books I read in 2015.
How can you not love an author who starts a story with this line? "My father fancied himself a shrewd landlord—he refused to rent to lawyers, the children of lawyers, even a college girl 'who had law school written all over her'—but he bit off too much when he sublet to the mime." C'mon, short story fans, let's make this guy a star!
There are many things I love about Appel's stories. He's a great writer, and his stories all share a similar quirkiness, although one that doesn't detract from their overall power. But they also possess a great deal of emotion, which in some stories is utterly apparent from the start, but in others it surprises you until you've completed the story and you've realized how much you've just been moved in a short number of pages.
Among my favorite stories in this collection: "Pollen," in which a teenage girl schemes to trick her cousin and ends up being the one who gets hurt more; "Hearth and Home," which tells of a lonely diplomat's wife pondering an affair while they're living in Norway; "Saluting the Magpie," about a man struggling with his overprotective wife's fears about their infant daughter; "The Butcher's Music," in which a butcher has to deal with the unexpected return of her estranged, more successful sister, while also navigating striking workers and the romantic intentions of a rival; "Boundaries," which tells of a pair of border control guards facing a potential crisis; and "Coulrophobia," the story with the terrific opening line, about a family turned upside down when a mime rents the other half of their duplex.
Appel has such finesse with his stories, and every time I read one of his collections, I wish most of the stories were longer so I can know more about these characters and what happened to them when the stories are done. If you like short stories and you've never read any of Appel's work, I'd encourage you to do so. His stories are sometimes funny, sometimes moving, sometimes thought provoking, and always excellent.
The author provided me an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making this available!
See all of my reviews at http://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blo....
I find myself asking this question a lot about authors, and I certainly asked it again when reading Jacob M. Appel's newest story collection, Coulrophobia & Fata Morgana . Here's a writer with so much talent, so much creativity, so much heart, that I just can't figure out why more people aren't saying, "Did you read Jacob Appels latest book?" And this isn't the first book I've red of his—I think I've said the same thing when I read two of his previous story collections last year, Einstein's Beach House and Miracles and Conundrums of the Secondary Planets , which both received honorable mention on my list of the best books I read in 2015.
How can you not love an author who starts a story with this line? "My father fancied himself a shrewd landlord—he refused to rent to lawyers, the children of lawyers, even a college girl 'who had law school written all over her'—but he bit off too much when he sublet to the mime." C'mon, short story fans, let's make this guy a star!
There are many things I love about Appel's stories. He's a great writer, and his stories all share a similar quirkiness, although one that doesn't detract from their overall power. But they also possess a great deal of emotion, which in some stories is utterly apparent from the start, but in others it surprises you until you've completed the story and you've realized how much you've just been moved in a short number of pages.
Among my favorite stories in this collection: "Pollen," in which a teenage girl schemes to trick her cousin and ends up being the one who gets hurt more; "Hearth and Home," which tells of a lonely diplomat's wife pondering an affair while they're living in Norway; "Saluting the Magpie," about a man struggling with his overprotective wife's fears about their infant daughter; "The Butcher's Music," in which a butcher has to deal with the unexpected return of her estranged, more successful sister, while also navigating striking workers and the romantic intentions of a rival; "Boundaries," which tells of a pair of border control guards facing a potential crisis; and "Coulrophobia," the story with the terrific opening line, about a family turned upside down when a mime rents the other half of their duplex.
Appel has such finesse with his stories, and every time I read one of his collections, I wish most of the stories were longer so I can know more about these characters and what happened to them when the stories are done. If you like short stories and you've never read any of Appel's work, I'd encourage you to do so. His stories are sometimes funny, sometimes moving, sometimes thought provoking, and always excellent.
The author provided me an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making this available!
See all of my reviews at http://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blo....
June 30, 2016
I can't seem to get enough of Jacob M. Appel. He writes short stories which are
'out-of-the-box' mind-twisting intriguing, dark, funny, diverse, sad, sweet, tragic, hopeful, and original......
........all the elements we want. There is something so very different about Jacob. I guess if I HAD to put words to what it is that moves me....it's THE HUMAN EMOTIONS I feel. ----a sort of melancholy ---which lives beneath the surface of our daily lives.
I never know what to expect from him, other than his background....( Physician, Attorney, Bioethicist) ... 'at times' shows up in little ways. His unique life experiences mixes well with his brilliant imagination - which transfers well into his talented skill as a writer.
This collection kept me thinking .....and honestly -every book I've read by him keeps me thinking. I own 4 of his physical books. I often leave them out for guests to read who sleep over in our guest house. I re-read them myself.
I was cheap this time. When I saw TWO of his books on Netgalley...I jumped with excitement. Like a child might say: MINE!!! I WANT THESE NOW!!!!! Problem is....I want the physical books now, too! I had 'just' bought one more....(one that Netgalley didn't have).
I really can't say enough....I'm a HUGE FAN of this young guy!
For those who have not read Jacob M. Appel yet....I don't know what you're waiting for.
If you happen to be Jewish - like me- readers might appreciate the 'entertaining' ....( autobiography/essays).....called "Phoning Home". It will warm your heart...Jacob will steal your heart...his family will steal your heart....and you'll never think of lime jello the same again. THEN....when you read his other 'very' creative collection of short stories... You'll know a little more about the author himself. ( just sayin). I enjoy the 'combo' - of knowing a little about an author -- it often adds to my experience of reading their books. However ....it's not necessary!
I'm grateful to the publisher Black Lawrence Press, Netgalley, and Jacob M. Appel....
......( the only way this guy could improve in my eyes...is if he married one of my daughters --loved her dearly- and they were happy) ...JACOB ..."THANKS" for the stories you write! YOU ROCK!!!!
'out-of-the-box' mind-twisting intriguing, dark, funny, diverse, sad, sweet, tragic, hopeful, and original......
........all the elements we want. There is something so very different about Jacob. I guess if I HAD to put words to what it is that moves me....it's THE HUMAN EMOTIONS I feel. ----a sort of melancholy ---which lives beneath the surface of our daily lives.
I never know what to expect from him, other than his background....( Physician, Attorney, Bioethicist) ... 'at times' shows up in little ways. His unique life experiences mixes well with his brilliant imagination - which transfers well into his talented skill as a writer.
This collection kept me thinking .....and honestly -every book I've read by him keeps me thinking. I own 4 of his physical books. I often leave them out for guests to read who sleep over in our guest house. I re-read them myself.
I was cheap this time. When I saw TWO of his books on Netgalley...I jumped with excitement. Like a child might say: MINE!!! I WANT THESE NOW!!!!! Problem is....I want the physical books now, too! I had 'just' bought one more....(one that Netgalley didn't have).
I really can't say enough....I'm a HUGE FAN of this young guy!
For those who have not read Jacob M. Appel yet....I don't know what you're waiting for.
If you happen to be Jewish - like me- readers might appreciate the 'entertaining' ....( autobiography/essays).....called "Phoning Home". It will warm your heart...Jacob will steal your heart...his family will steal your heart....and you'll never think of lime jello the same again. THEN....when you read his other 'very' creative collection of short stories... You'll know a little more about the author himself. ( just sayin). I enjoy the 'combo' - of knowing a little about an author -- it often adds to my experience of reading their books. However ....it's not necessary!
I'm grateful to the publisher Black Lawrence Press, Netgalley, and Jacob M. Appel....
......( the only way this guy could improve in my eyes...is if he married one of my daughters --loved her dearly- and they were happy) ...JACOB ..."THANKS" for the stories you write! YOU ROCK!!!!
October 30, 2016
I am an avowed lover of short stories, I believe they take a certain but difficult skill because in a few short pages the author must provide the reader with a complete and original glimpse of a moment in time. Appel is a master at this and these stories are phenomenal, they flow so well, are complete in and of themselves.
His characters are quirky, different, a chimney sweep, a mime, a woman butcher and they provide the reader with something wholly original. The disease pica, border guards with a suspected epidemic, I loved them all. Some started out fairly innocuous and then morphed into something else. Some of the endings, the last sentence brought the whole story together, providing an aha moment, room for thought.
A brilliant collection, there was not one I didn't enjoy. They covered all the human emotions, humor, fear, sadness, relief, joy and so many others. Short story lovers will embrace this collection, those who don't read short stories should give these a try. Wholly entertaining.
ARC from Netgalley.
His characters are quirky, different, a chimney sweep, a mime, a woman butcher and they provide the reader with something wholly original. The disease pica, border guards with a suspected epidemic, I loved them all. Some started out fairly innocuous and then morphed into something else. Some of the endings, the last sentence brought the whole story together, providing an aha moment, room for thought.
A brilliant collection, there was not one I didn't enjoy. They covered all the human emotions, humor, fear, sadness, relief, joy and so many others. Short story lovers will embrace this collection, those who don't read short stories should give these a try. Wholly entertaining.
ARC from Netgalley.
September 1, 2016
I read a lot of short stories. Binders full of short stories! Some of them flit through my mind, little wisps of smoke that barely register even as I'm reading them. Usually there are one or two standout tales in any given collection - a few stories that months later, I can say, "Yes, yes, that was a good one!"
But there's something about Jacob Appel's stories . . .
They stick in my brain, and stay stuck. It's not as painful as it sounds. In fact, it's rather wonderful.
He creates interesting, believable, though not always likable, characters. They, with their eccentricities and foibles, seem so very real. They may even remind you of friends and/or relatives. The situations they face may be far-fetched, but their responses are appropriate.
There's an aura of humor, occasionally even whimsy, hovering in the background. The quirk-factor is strong in these stories. And, though I am always satisfied with the endings, I hate like hell to see them end.
I'm not going to dissect every story here; let another reviewer do that. Just know there is some terrific writing, and good times to be had within these pages.
AND, don't ever rent to a mime!
*About that title . . .
Even though I have several books featuring pictures of scary clowns, I managed to confuse coulrophobia with coprophagia. Yeah. Don't do that. And fata morgana, a term I'd never run into before, is a mirage that can appear along the horizon line:
Hey, the more you know . . .
But there's something about Jacob Appel's stories . . .
They stick in my brain, and stay stuck. It's not as painful as it sounds. In fact, it's rather wonderful.
He creates interesting, believable, though not always likable, characters. They, with their eccentricities and foibles, seem so very real. They may even remind you of friends and/or relatives. The situations they face may be far-fetched, but their responses are appropriate.
There's an aura of humor, occasionally even whimsy, hovering in the background. The quirk-factor is strong in these stories. And, though I am always satisfied with the endings, I hate like hell to see them end.
I'm not going to dissect every story here; let another reviewer do that. Just know there is some terrific writing, and good times to be had within these pages.
AND, don't ever rent to a mime!
*About that title . . .
Even though I have several books featuring pictures of scary clowns, I managed to confuse coulrophobia with coprophagia. Yeah. Don't do that. And fata morgana, a term I'd never run into before, is a mirage that can appear along the horizon line:
Hey, the more you know . . .
February 22, 2019
EXCERPT: From the short story Silent Theology-
My dead wife is dating Greta Garbo. It's that same spiteful streak Helen had when she was alive. She could have chosen Clark Gable or Humphrey Bogart or Gary Cooper - and instead she goes out and picks up Greta Garbo, because I once made the mistake of joking that I 'd married the second sexiest woman on earth.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: In his ninth book and fifth collection of stories, Jacob M. Appel introduces readers to a a diplomats wife who attempts to seduce her chimney sweep through Norwegian lessons, a minister whose dead wife is romantically involved with Greta Garbo and a landlord menaced by a rent-delinquent mime.
MY THOUGHTS: Jacob M Appel has done it again. He has written another collection of short stories that tickle your funny-bone and pull at your heart strings.
All of us seek love and understanding on some level - yet not all of us are prepared to give it. You will recognise parts of yourself, parts of people you know, as Jacob gives us a glimpse into the lives of the unpredictable characters he is so good at portraying.
A wonderful collection of short stories, in my opinion his best yet.
💖💖💖💖💖
THE AUTHOR: Jacob M. Appel's first novel, The Man Who Wouldn't Stand Up, won the Dundee International Book Award in 2012. His short story collection, Scouting for the Reaper, won the 2012 Hudson Prize. He has published short fiction in more than two hundred literary journals including Agni, Conjunctions, Gettysburg Review, Southwest Review, Virginia Quarterly Review, and West Branch. His work has been short listed for the O. Henry Award (2001), Best American Short Stories (2007, 2008), Best American Essays (2011, 2012), and received "special mention" for the Pushcart Prize in 2006, 2007, 2011 and 2013.
Jacob holds a B.A. and an M.A. from Brown University, an M.A. and an M.Phil. from Columbia University, an M.S. in bioethics from the Alden March Bioethics Institute of Albany Medical College, an M.D. from Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons, an M.F.A. in creative writing from New York University, an M.F.A. in playwriting from Queens College, an M.P.H. from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. He currently practices psychiatry in New York City.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to author Jacob M Appel for sending a copy of this book all the way to NZ for me to enjoy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system. This review and others are also published on my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
My dead wife is dating Greta Garbo. It's that same spiteful streak Helen had when she was alive. She could have chosen Clark Gable or Humphrey Bogart or Gary Cooper - and instead she goes out and picks up Greta Garbo, because I once made the mistake of joking that I 'd married the second sexiest woman on earth.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: In his ninth book and fifth collection of stories, Jacob M. Appel introduces readers to a a diplomats wife who attempts to seduce her chimney sweep through Norwegian lessons, a minister whose dead wife is romantically involved with Greta Garbo and a landlord menaced by a rent-delinquent mime.
MY THOUGHTS: Jacob M Appel has done it again. He has written another collection of short stories that tickle your funny-bone and pull at your heart strings.
All of us seek love and understanding on some level - yet not all of us are prepared to give it. You will recognise parts of yourself, parts of people you know, as Jacob gives us a glimpse into the lives of the unpredictable characters he is so good at portraying.
A wonderful collection of short stories, in my opinion his best yet.
💖💖💖💖💖
THE AUTHOR: Jacob M. Appel's first novel, The Man Who Wouldn't Stand Up, won the Dundee International Book Award in 2012. His short story collection, Scouting for the Reaper, won the 2012 Hudson Prize. He has published short fiction in more than two hundred literary journals including Agni, Conjunctions, Gettysburg Review, Southwest Review, Virginia Quarterly Review, and West Branch. His work has been short listed for the O. Henry Award (2001), Best American Short Stories (2007, 2008), Best American Essays (2011, 2012), and received "special mention" for the Pushcart Prize in 2006, 2007, 2011 and 2013.
Jacob holds a B.A. and an M.A. from Brown University, an M.A. and an M.Phil. from Columbia University, an M.S. in bioethics from the Alden March Bioethics Institute of Albany Medical College, an M.D. from Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons, an M.F.A. in creative writing from New York University, an M.F.A. in playwriting from Queens College, an M.P.H. from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. He currently practices psychiatry in New York City.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to author Jacob M Appel for sending a copy of this book all the way to NZ for me to enjoy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system. This review and others are also published on my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
September 15, 2016
I find myself holding another book filled with short stories that make me ask questions, think and smile. That means I am reading one of Jacob Appel's books again.
There are ten short stories in this latest book and each one is a winner.
In the first Daniel had one heck of a grandmother. That first story gets your blood pumping and primed for the next. I love the way Jacob Appel writes. He makes me flinch when he turns the story on its ear.
The second story was about a mean cousin. what a jumbled story with humor and meanness mixed together. Is that a thing? Well, Jacob Appel made it one and he made it work.
Boundaries is another little jewel that makes you realize, that people are a mess. They are confused and selfish, and basically just a mess.
Coulrophobia is delightfully punny. It is one of the best stories I have read.
Saluting the Magpie Is the story of one ingenious baby. What a story. Very unexpected.
Fata Morgana made me want to pick up smoking. It was a totally oddball story. So of course, I loved it.
There were several more stories that were just as engaging as these. I love the way Jacob Appel writes. He takes you down a hall and right at the end, he turns a corner. Always a treat to read his stories. This book is no exception. I learned a new word and am happy I do not suffer from it. It was a wonderful reading experience.
There are ten short stories in this latest book and each one is a winner.
In the first Daniel had one heck of a grandmother. That first story gets your blood pumping and primed for the next. I love the way Jacob Appel writes. He makes me flinch when he turns the story on its ear.
The second story was about a mean cousin. what a jumbled story with humor and meanness mixed together. Is that a thing? Well, Jacob Appel made it one and he made it work.
Boundaries is another little jewel that makes you realize, that people are a mess. They are confused and selfish, and basically just a mess.
Coulrophobia is delightfully punny. It is one of the best stories I have read.
Saluting the Magpie Is the story of one ingenious baby. What a story. Very unexpected.
Fata Morgana made me want to pick up smoking. It was a totally oddball story. So of course, I loved it.
There were several more stories that were just as engaging as these. I love the way Jacob Appel writes. He takes you down a hall and right at the end, he turns a corner. Always a treat to read his stories. This book is no exception. I learned a new word and am happy I do not suffer from it. It was a wonderful reading experience.
May 23, 2017
There is a talent to writing short stories, and Jacob Appel certainly has it in spades. I previously read and enjoyed a novel of his, The Man Who Wouldn't Stand Up, so I was looking forward to reading from him. Coulrophobia and Fata Morgana's stories were as diverse as their quirky characters within the pages. A delightful and highly entertaining read. Thanks to the author and Goodreads, I won this copy from First Reads.
January 11, 2017
I have often, when standing behind someone at the check-out, or waving at someone in passing that I have never really spoken to-- just friendly waves, or seeing a teenager sitting on the curb, wondered what their families are like, their homes, and lives. And every family has weirdness in it somewhere, some more than others, but it is there somewhere. In any given day, by someone in the subway, sitting across from them in the doctors, bumping into them at the crosswalk, we probably glance at people from a wide range of family types... some from happy, quiet families, others from loud, raucous, playful ones, others highly dysfunctional, and still some that nightmares are made of. Mr. Appel, in this collection of short stories, gives us a glimpse into some random peoples' lives-- just a brief window. They say that life is stranger than fiction, and Jacob Appel has captured that essence. He is a wonderful storyteller, with a vivid imagination, and a artist with imagery. He pens with a wry sense of humor that often had me laughing out loud. I would recommend this book to all literature lovers!
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review. Thank you Mr. Appel.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review. Thank you Mr. Appel.
April 21, 2017
I received this book for free through LibraryThing's Member Giveaways.
I really enjoyed this and typically I have a hard time with short stories. Usually, I find them to be polarizing; I either love the story or hate it. With this collection I liked pretty much all of them They were all really creative and different and overall just refreshing to read. My favorites were, "Pollen," "Saluting the Magpie," and "Hearth and Home."
I really enjoyed this and typically I have a hard time with short stories. Usually, I find them to be polarizing; I either love the story or hate it. With this collection I liked pretty much all of them They were all really creative and different and overall just refreshing to read. My favorites were, "Pollen," "Saluting the Magpie," and "Hearth and Home."
Want to read
February 2, 2017I'm a lucky winner!
March 24, 2017
This was an excellent collection of stories! Thoroughly enjoyable - and more.
These are short, neat, meticulously-written stories which reveal a man (or woman's) deepest fears and insecurities. What at the beginning may seem completely ordinary - a couple in love; a pair of jolly census-takers; a man and a woman at a Canadian-US border crossing; a family taking in a new renter; a bored woman teaching her new chimney-sweep how to speak Norwegian - slowly, and through a series of conversations, interactions and events, becomes a mirror into the lives they are leading, often with surprising results.
Or maybe it's just one small conversation or interaction that can change the way we see things - and those around us.
At any rate, an elegant and thought-provoking collection, well worth any reader's time.
These are short, neat, meticulously-written stories which reveal a man (or woman's) deepest fears and insecurities. What at the beginning may seem completely ordinary - a couple in love; a pair of jolly census-takers; a man and a woman at a Canadian-US border crossing; a family taking in a new renter; a bored woman teaching her new chimney-sweep how to speak Norwegian - slowly, and through a series of conversations, interactions and events, becomes a mirror into the lives they are leading, often with surprising results.
Or maybe it's just one small conversation or interaction that can change the way we see things - and those around us.
At any rate, an elegant and thought-provoking collection, well worth any reader's time.
September 23, 2016
We all know that with short stories, every word counts. Not that I want my longer fiction reads to be stuffed with endless, meaningless descriptions - but longer books can get away with more. Jacob Appel is one who doesn't waste words. And his sense of place is so amazing - in just a page or two I'm fully engulfed in the story's setting, able to picture everything, from the characters and their surroundings to the weather. To be able to go from the story Pollen straight to the next story Boundaries and be able so quickly to shift perspective and setting without blinking an eye... well, I think it's one of Appel's great gifts. I'm so happy to have stumbled across this author and can't wait to read more of his work.
September 21, 2016
I love these books by Jacob M Appel. They are a collection of short stories. There are ten short stories and each one is a winner. Having had read a few of his books now, this latest collection stays true to his theme of writing. This book being about relationships. Just when you think you know what may happen...you will be way off.
These are the 10 stories:
1. The Butcher's Music
2. The Punishment
3. Pollen
4. Boundaries
5. Coulrophobia
6. Saluting the Magpie
7. Fata Morgana
8. Hearth and Home
9. Counting
10. Silent Theology
Grab this book and read it! It's Awesome.
These are the 10 stories:
1. The Butcher's Music
2. The Punishment
3. Pollen
4. Boundaries
5. Coulrophobia
6. Saluting the Magpie
7. Fata Morgana
8. Hearth and Home
9. Counting
10. Silent Theology
Grab this book and read it! It's Awesome.
September 1, 2016
Another wonderful collection of stories from one of my favorite authors. There is a variety of tales here that range from pretty dark to nostalgic and thought provoking. All the stories are descriptive and relatable.
August 28, 2019
Definitely nowhere near anything I’d normally pick up, and while some parts were a tad boring, I did enjoy quite a bit more than I thought I would!
January 6, 2017
The Butcher's Music - two sisters that have grown distant are brought together by one sister's rash actions.
The Punishment - a grandmother deals with her disobedient grandson.
Pollen - a young girl anonymously sends flowers to her sister.
Boundaries- two border patrol agents discuss love and loss.
Coulrophobia - a man rents an apartment to a mime and it has lasting consequences.
Saluting the Magpie - a young couple has a baby with pica. The husband is challenged in ways he can't comprehend to assure his frazzled wife all is well.
Fata Morgana - the title refers to an optical illusion. The story focuses on a couple honeymooning in Iceland. Clever title given what happens in the story.
Hearth and Home - a woman contemplates having an affair.
Counting - two Census Bureau workers meet a couple that lives off the grid.
Silent Theology - a minister mourns his dead wife and his past transgressions.
Wow. What a great storyteller. This is a great collection of stories that spans varied locations and situations. I found myself surprised at the twists some of the stories took (in a good way). I will definitely look for his other collections.
I won my copy here in the giveaways. My thanks to the author.
The Punishment - a grandmother deals with her disobedient grandson.
Pollen - a young girl anonymously sends flowers to her sister.
Boundaries- two border patrol agents discuss love and loss.
Coulrophobia - a man rents an apartment to a mime and it has lasting consequences.
Saluting the Magpie - a young couple has a baby with pica. The husband is challenged in ways he can't comprehend to assure his frazzled wife all is well.
Fata Morgana - the title refers to an optical illusion. The story focuses on a couple honeymooning in Iceland. Clever title given what happens in the story.
Hearth and Home - a woman contemplates having an affair.
Counting - two Census Bureau workers meet a couple that lives off the grid.
Silent Theology - a minister mourns his dead wife and his past transgressions.
Wow. What a great storyteller. This is a great collection of stories that spans varied locations and situations. I found myself surprised at the twists some of the stories took (in a good way). I will definitely look for his other collections.
I won my copy here in the giveaways. My thanks to the author.
July 23, 2017
Not only do I have an extremely short attention span on any given topic, but I'm a very picky person; not much in life impresses me. Most often, I am amused. But to impress me, someone/something needs to be exceptional. Jacob Appel's writing accomplished both feats: His stories kept my attention and his writing is exceptional. I'm truly impressed.
At any given time, I have anywhere from three to seven (or more) books started, and I read whatever book matches my interest/mood on a particular day. 'Coulrophobia & Fata Morgana' continued to be on the top of the stack to read. To pace myself and work the book into my busy schedule, I planned one story a day. I will admit though, there were times when the calendar was rearranged to accommodate two or three stories during one sitting. So, along with being exceptional, Jacob's writing also managed to move things around in my calendar. Even family members have a difficult time with that task... Yes, my children have to schedule an appointment with me for something more in-depth than walking by and saying, "hi."
Thank you, Jacob, for your writing packed with creative imagery and entertaining storytelling. I'm looking forward to adding more of your books into my calendar.
At any given time, I have anywhere from three to seven (or more) books started, and I read whatever book matches my interest/mood on a particular day. 'Coulrophobia & Fata Morgana' continued to be on the top of the stack to read. To pace myself and work the book into my busy schedule, I planned one story a day. I will admit though, there were times when the calendar was rearranged to accommodate two or three stories during one sitting. So, along with being exceptional, Jacob's writing also managed to move things around in my calendar. Even family members have a difficult time with that task... Yes, my children have to schedule an appointment with me for something more in-depth than walking by and saying, "hi."
Thank you, Jacob, for your writing packed with creative imagery and entertaining storytelling. I'm looking forward to adding more of your books into my calendar.
December 28, 2016
Each story is a glimpse of a life not my own. Images appear in my mind along with a miscellaneous cast of characters that appear on the page in front of me. Some are vaguely familiar and others are total strangers but they are entertaining, puzzling and completely intriguing. All the things I love about short stories I found in this volume.
If there is an underlying theme in this book it’s that each story is to be unique, only diversity wanted here. Descriptive language, original story lines, uncommon characters combine to keep you engrossed in the stories and lead you on to the next little gem. One cousin playing a mean joke on another, a paranoid mother or is she, a temptation of an affair, and a mime who disrupts a landlord’s family are a few of the intrigues you will find within these pages.
A nicely put together collection of stories that I enjoyed reading.
This book was won in a First Reads giveaway.
If there is an underlying theme in this book it’s that each story is to be unique, only diversity wanted here. Descriptive language, original story lines, uncommon characters combine to keep you engrossed in the stories and lead you on to the next little gem. One cousin playing a mean joke on another, a paranoid mother or is she, a temptation of an affair, and a mime who disrupts a landlord’s family are a few of the intrigues you will find within these pages.
A nicely put together collection of stories that I enjoyed reading.
This book was won in a First Reads giveaway.
January 22, 2018
This is another wonderfully imaginative collection of short stories by Jacob M. Appel. In case you're not familiar with the term "Coulorophobia," it is the fear of clowns. Who knew? I sure didn't, but I'd say a lot of people have that fear. Perhaps my favorite story in this collection is "Silent Theology " which is about a minister whose deceased wife is in love with Great Garbo. I wonder where Jacob comes up with his ideas. The minister describes one of his daughters as having "bulging eyes. like Bette Davis on crack." Each of his stories leave with a wide range of emotions from joy to melancholy to introspective. Check it out for some fresh, wildly original stories that I'm sure you'll enjoy, and then check out his other collections too such as The Magic Laundry. I can't wait to read more of his stories.
September 20, 2016
Jacob M. Appel writes surprising stories about amazing characters; he continues doing so in this collection of short stories. When I call his characters amazing I mean it in the strict sense - "causing amazement, great wonder, or surprise." And yet, no matter how strange his characters seem, there is something about them that piques the reader's curiosity and sometimes even, affection. Not always, though. Some of his characters are really hard to like, even a little bit, yet they are all interesting and hold his readers' attention, if only to hope that some form of justice may be served in the end.
Reading Appel's work is always an pleasurable experience. His imagination, wild as it appears to be, is well matched by his writing talent.
Reading Appel's work is always an pleasurable experience. His imagination, wild as it appears to be, is well matched by his writing talent.
March 2, 2017
As a recent devotee to the short story format, I could not pass up a book of such premise and promise. Summoning forth Greta Garbo, a philanthropic mime and even a case of infant pica, these stories went in all kinds of bent directions and I was more than willing to follow.
I was not, however, able to find the meaning or motivation behind many of the stories. For me, this lessened my fulfillment of the stories and left me a bit disconnected with the collection as a whole.
Overall, a good read and a strong impression, but not necessarily a lasting one.
I received my book as a Goodreads Giveaway. My thanks to the author for sharing his work!
I was not, however, able to find the meaning or motivation behind many of the stories. For me, this lessened my fulfillment of the stories and left me a bit disconnected with the collection as a whole.
Overall, a good read and a strong impression, but not necessarily a lasting one.
I received my book as a Goodreads Giveaway. My thanks to the author for sharing his work!
July 23, 2016
Read this book as part of NetGalley's offerings. And I'll say this is one of those books where you start reading and within a few seconds you're saying WTF! and you just can't put it down.
Short stories but long on originality and just pure amazingness of writing that you so seldom see particularly coming from the politically correct southern part of North America. Be prepared to be taken out of your comfort zone
Short stories but long on originality and just pure amazingness of writing that you so seldom see particularly coming from the politically correct southern part of North America. Be prepared to be taken out of your comfort zone
September 19, 2016
I received this book as a gift from the author. Very interesting, good quick read shorts. Dark, different, delightful. Variety of topics, but usually dark and different - sorry it's the best way to describe this grouping - but will definitely read more. Not to be missed. Thank you.
July 1, 2016
Tense, Vivid and Provocative Stories at the Intersection of Love, Power and Despair
O.K., so take a general purpose collection of meticulously observed "literary" short stories. Now, add in some dread and neuroses, a few dead babies, and maybe some obsession, guilt, mendacity and regret. Is this new book more fun to read, or less fun? I don't know. What I do know is that the stories in this book combine some achingly perceptive lines, some bizarre twists, a train-wreck approach to plot, and appear to be the work of an author unconcerned by lack of precedent. I also know that if Jacob Appel were my roommate I would never fall asleep while he was still awake.
Consider the first story. SPOILER. It looks like it's going to be a kitchen sink drama about the conflict between a stalled schlubby sister and a golden successful famous sister. Maybe there will be some gripe about which parent liked which sister the best. Etc., etc.. Well, on the one hand you do get a rueful and sympathetic heroine. You get some sparkling dialogue. You get an exaggerated and funny sketch of the preoccupied, conceited and totally self-absorbed sister. But then the dead baby shows up and the whole project goes off the tracks as the heroine tries to get a handle on this rather unexpected development while the narrative proceeds in a deadpan style that suggests nothing particularly unusual is going on. Later stories follow a similar pattern.
It seems to me that you can approach this book in a couple of ways. You can go all serious and literary critical. Or, you can enjoy and watch for and cherry pick the best lines and bits, because there are many, many treats to be found. Or, you can just dive in and go for the ride, even if sometimes you feel uncomfortable about enjoying it or wonder why you are enjoying it. The stories range from bitterly funny to touching, although "hopeful" isn't much in evidence. Resignation is more the signature effect, accompanied by a certain casual cruelty.
So, if you like vigorous and rather fearless story telling, complemented by subtle and effective craftsmanship, and topped with a fine eye for detail and the effective or startling observation or description, then this collection might be just what you need, whether you know it or not.
(Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book in exchange for a candid review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
O.K., so take a general purpose collection of meticulously observed "literary" short stories. Now, add in some dread and neuroses, a few dead babies, and maybe some obsession, guilt, mendacity and regret. Is this new book more fun to read, or less fun? I don't know. What I do know is that the stories in this book combine some achingly perceptive lines, some bizarre twists, a train-wreck approach to plot, and appear to be the work of an author unconcerned by lack of precedent. I also know that if Jacob Appel were my roommate I would never fall asleep while he was still awake.
Consider the first story. SPOILER. It looks like it's going to be a kitchen sink drama about the conflict between a stalled schlubby sister and a golden successful famous sister. Maybe there will be some gripe about which parent liked which sister the best. Etc., etc.. Well, on the one hand you do get a rueful and sympathetic heroine. You get some sparkling dialogue. You get an exaggerated and funny sketch of the preoccupied, conceited and totally self-absorbed sister. But then the dead baby shows up and the whole project goes off the tracks as the heroine tries to get a handle on this rather unexpected development while the narrative proceeds in a deadpan style that suggests nothing particularly unusual is going on. Later stories follow a similar pattern.
It seems to me that you can approach this book in a couple of ways. You can go all serious and literary critical. Or, you can enjoy and watch for and cherry pick the best lines and bits, because there are many, many treats to be found. Or, you can just dive in and go for the ride, even if sometimes you feel uncomfortable about enjoying it or wonder why you are enjoying it. The stories range from bitterly funny to touching, although "hopeful" isn't much in evidence. Resignation is more the signature effect, accompanied by a certain casual cruelty.
So, if you like vigorous and rather fearless story telling, complemented by subtle and effective craftsmanship, and topped with a fine eye for detail and the effective or startling observation or description, then this collection might be just what you need, whether you know it or not.
(Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book in exchange for a candid review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
July 2, 2017
(Note: I received a free copy of this book through Goodreads Giveaways.)
The story "Coulrophobia" begins like this:
"My father fancied himself a shrewd landlord- he refused to rent to lawyers, the children of lawyers, even a college girl who 'had law school written all over her'- but he bit off too much when he sublet to the mime."
How could you not be instantly hooked into that story, eager to find out what this mime did to outwit his landlord?
But that sentence probably gives you a falsely whimsical impression; although the mime provides a faintly absurd note, this is a serious story about a boy watching his parents' marriage fall apart. The ten stories here are all serious stories, revolving around the pitfalls of family and matrimonial relationships. A woman whose sister doesn't want her own baby. A popular teenager playing a mean-spirited joke on her wallflower sister. A man dealing with a wife who is obsessively paranoid about their daughter's safety, and turns out to be right. A woman who goes right to the brink of having an affair. A woman who was 'wild' when she was young, trying to deal with raising a grandson who's equally wild.
They're excellent stories, written skillfully enough that you don't even notice authorial style. (Not so easy to achieve.) Some are unpleasant, particularly the one about the grandmother with the wild grandson. They're still well worthwhile.
The story "Coulrophobia" begins like this:
"My father fancied himself a shrewd landlord- he refused to rent to lawyers, the children of lawyers, even a college girl who 'had law school written all over her'- but he bit off too much when he sublet to the mime."
How could you not be instantly hooked into that story, eager to find out what this mime did to outwit his landlord?
But that sentence probably gives you a falsely whimsical impression; although the mime provides a faintly absurd note, this is a serious story about a boy watching his parents' marriage fall apart. The ten stories here are all serious stories, revolving around the pitfalls of family and matrimonial relationships. A woman whose sister doesn't want her own baby. A popular teenager playing a mean-spirited joke on her wallflower sister. A man dealing with a wife who is obsessively paranoid about their daughter's safety, and turns out to be right. A woman who goes right to the brink of having an affair. A woman who was 'wild' when she was young, trying to deal with raising a grandson who's equally wild.
They're excellent stories, written skillfully enough that you don't even notice authorial style. (Not so easy to achieve.) Some are unpleasant, particularly the one about the grandmother with the wild grandson. They're still well worthwhile.
August 30, 2016
Brilliant! That's the author and the book, to my mind. The details in these stories are exquisite, and Mr. Appel has a way of injecting surprises, such as satire, something appalling, bits of humor, sudden twists just when you are settling into a story. The characters are often priceless; again, you know they're out there. I don't know how he comes up with the people and settings, situations and fine details, but this is stellar writing, whether you like the story or not. I enjoy savoring anything he writes.
Often I learn something from these reads as well, like the definition of coulrophobia. The book was sent to me by the author, pre-release. The stories defy explanation or review. They must be read. Writing with such fine nuances isn't for everyone, I suspect, but it's good to expand your mind.
Often I learn something from these reads as well, like the definition of coulrophobia. The book was sent to me by the author, pre-release. The stories defy explanation or review. They must be read. Writing with such fine nuances isn't for everyone, I suspect, but it's good to expand your mind.
September 20, 2016
GAB I received a free paperback copy of this book of short stories from Jacob M. Appel in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Jacob Appel, for sharing your work with me. I always enjoy your stories.
And this is no exception to that rule. Coulrophobia and Fata Morgana is a collection of 10 short stories that make you think - in retrospect you are not ever sure if you should laugh, or cry. I think my favorite of this collection is Boundaries, but they are all exceptional tales.
Published Sept 1, 2016
Not available for review, Amazon, B&N sept 1, 2016
And this is no exception to that rule. Coulrophobia and Fata Morgana is a collection of 10 short stories that make you think - in retrospect you are not ever sure if you should laugh, or cry. I think my favorite of this collection is Boundaries, but they are all exceptional tales.
Published Sept 1, 2016
Not available for review, Amazon, B&N sept 1, 2016
September 12, 2016
When I started this book my plan was to read one story each week in order to savor it, (I love and dread reaching the end of a good book at the same time) but things didn't go according to plan. From the first story to the last I found myself picking it up any time I had a spare second. There are very few books or stories that I read more than once, however, I am certain that this will be one of those that I do as I find myself still thinking about the stories and characters even after moving on to my next read. Thank you, Mr. Apple, for that rare gift.
July 14, 2016
COULROPHOBIA & FATA MORGANA is another excellent, addictive collection of ten stories by Jacob M. Appel.
But this time the collection resembles more of a ten-car pile-up of lives—impulsive characters only concerned with their own self-accepting rationalization for their actions and propensities (murderer munching on a double slice of strawberry shortcake, while contemplating the necessity for a second murder: “I’m not a bad person…It could have happened to anyone.”) Stories replete with his attention-grabbing, stage-setting first sentences (“My father fancied himself a shrewd landlord—he refused to rent to lawyers, the children of lawyers, even a college girl who ‘had law school written all over her’—but he bit off too much when he sublet to the mime.”) and those ingenuous, lively details.
The writer widens the freedom for his characters in physicalizing impulses, giving us outright terrifying sociopaths as well as ordinary people realizing they have reached a tipping point. These are richly developed, memorable characters such as the long-term adulterous minister in “Silent Theology,” recently widowed, griefless, and “tell-tale heart” paranoid about condemnation and damnation—plagued by his dead wife relentlessly dancing with Greta Garbo before him every evening. The butcher who ponders that “Nothing is as reliable as a side of beef.” The husband with those beginning words “Domestic upheaval” and pennies, pediatric emergency rooms, and pondering if “happy lives aren’t by definition ab-normal.” Some are observers but most all face “a catastrophe waiting to happen.”
Often harder-edged and grittier, the stories are not devoid of Jacob M. Appel’s original gems of humor perfectly laced throughout. After all, any census-taker would have a rough time in Lawless County, AZ, but no harder than a reader trying to find the referenced book, “Messianics for Morons.” Only a writer who relishes the play in his craft would dare to give this title to a book. Yet some readers may find this collection edgier in action, tone and dialogue than previous ones—not what they are accustomed to in his writing. The writer takes chances, not only as a writer but as a bioethicist which is never too far in the background. He gives himself that wider freedom in writing as well, and it works.
This collection of stories is another superb journey into Jacob M. Appel’s writing, not to be missed.
I appreciate the opportunity that Black Lawrence Press, NetGalley and Jacob M. Appel have given me to early access to this book.
But this time the collection resembles more of a ten-car pile-up of lives—impulsive characters only concerned with their own self-accepting rationalization for their actions and propensities (murderer munching on a double slice of strawberry shortcake, while contemplating the necessity for a second murder: “I’m not a bad person…It could have happened to anyone.”) Stories replete with his attention-grabbing, stage-setting first sentences (“My father fancied himself a shrewd landlord—he refused to rent to lawyers, the children of lawyers, even a college girl who ‘had law school written all over her’—but he bit off too much when he sublet to the mime.”) and those ingenuous, lively details.
The writer widens the freedom for his characters in physicalizing impulses, giving us outright terrifying sociopaths as well as ordinary people realizing they have reached a tipping point. These are richly developed, memorable characters such as the long-term adulterous minister in “Silent Theology,” recently widowed, griefless, and “tell-tale heart” paranoid about condemnation and damnation—plagued by his dead wife relentlessly dancing with Greta Garbo before him every evening. The butcher who ponders that “Nothing is as reliable as a side of beef.” The husband with those beginning words “Domestic upheaval” and pennies, pediatric emergency rooms, and pondering if “happy lives aren’t by definition ab-normal.” Some are observers but most all face “a catastrophe waiting to happen.”
Often harder-edged and grittier, the stories are not devoid of Jacob M. Appel’s original gems of humor perfectly laced throughout. After all, any census-taker would have a rough time in Lawless County, AZ, but no harder than a reader trying to find the referenced book, “Messianics for Morons.” Only a writer who relishes the play in his craft would dare to give this title to a book. Yet some readers may find this collection edgier in action, tone and dialogue than previous ones—not what they are accustomed to in his writing. The writer takes chances, not only as a writer but as a bioethicist which is never too far in the background. He gives himself that wider freedom in writing as well, and it works.
This collection of stories is another superb journey into Jacob M. Appel’s writing, not to be missed.
I appreciate the opportunity that Black Lawrence Press, NetGalley and Jacob M. Appel have given me to early access to this book.
September 15, 2016
Once again, Appel doesn't disappoint!
I received a copy of this book for free directly from the author.
I'm always excited to read the next installment of Jacob M. Appel's short stories. Having read a few now, this latest collection stays true to his theme of writing about interpersonal relationships. Just a brief glimpse into the lives of others as they navigate their way through both short encounters and lengthy close relationships. The collections I have read in the past usually dealt with, what I call, an underlying melancholy (or sadness if you prefer) and this collection still has that feeling. But it also takes a bit of a darker tone as well. It's hard to explain what it is, but the stories are just feel a bit more somber.
I think when reading Appel's short stories, how one interprets them depends on the personal feelings and outlook on life of that person. The stories are always open ended so the reader can choose the ending for the characters in the story. I'm a pessimistic person by nature, so I tend to view the endings as sad or dreary. An optimistic person could have the opposite feeling at the end. It's one of the things I love most about the author's writing style, leaving unanswered questions but giving the reader just enough to make his or her own conclusion.
I'll certainly be looking forward to the next installment.
I received a copy of this book for free directly from the author.
I'm always excited to read the next installment of Jacob M. Appel's short stories. Having read a few now, this latest collection stays true to his theme of writing about interpersonal relationships. Just a brief glimpse into the lives of others as they navigate their way through both short encounters and lengthy close relationships. The collections I have read in the past usually dealt with, what I call, an underlying melancholy (or sadness if you prefer) and this collection still has that feeling. But it also takes a bit of a darker tone as well. It's hard to explain what it is, but the stories are just feel a bit more somber.
I think when reading Appel's short stories, how one interprets them depends on the personal feelings and outlook on life of that person. The stories are always open ended so the reader can choose the ending for the characters in the story. I'm a pessimistic person by nature, so I tend to view the endings as sad or dreary. An optimistic person could have the opposite feeling at the end. It's one of the things I love most about the author's writing style, leaving unanswered questions but giving the reader just enough to make his or her own conclusion.
I'll certainly be looking forward to the next installment.
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