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Strungballs
Strungballs is an extraordinary novella from Strange Books author Mike Russell. What are Strungballs? Ten-year-old Sydney is about to find out... but first he must have a cube of his flesh removed. Sydney will transgress everything he was taught to believe in when he embarks upon a journey that will reveal the astonishing secrets hidden by the red balls on white strings known only as... Strungballs. Inspiring, liberating, otherworldly, magical, surreal, bizarre, funny, disturbing, unique... all of these words have been used to describe the stories of Mike Russell. Once a Strungball is inserted it must never be removed.
68 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2016
3 people are currently reading
568 people want to read
About the author
Mike Russell
10 books382 followersMike Russell is a British author renowned for his unique, surreal short story collections and novels.
Russell's books have been praised for their originality, inventive storytelling, rich imagery and the questions they raise about the nature of reality. Russell has a distinctive narrative voice that blurs the line between reality and imagination. His work is noticeable for its minimalist style that often contrasts with the complex themes he explores.
Russell's debut Nothing Is Strange (2014) is a highly imaginative collection of short stories that introduced readers to his peculiar and mesmerising work. Each tale in the collection is a blend of the bizarre and philosophical, inviting readers to explore the deeper meanings within the stories. Russell’s subsequent short story collections Strange Medicine (2016), Strange Secrets (2018), Strange Wonders (2020) and Strange Concentrate (2023) have continued to challenge storytelling norms and question reality in a way that is as entertaining as it is unusual.
In addition to these collections, Mike Russell has authored a number of novels and novellas. Like his short story collections, these surreal and enigmatic works are characterised by their absurd humour, eccentric characters, unexpected twists and questioning of conventional thought.
Strungballs (2017) is a fantastical, dystopian, science fiction novella that delves into themes of conformity, individuality, materialism and societal structures.
The Exploding Book (2019) is a complex, surreal novel full of dark humour and astonishing imagery. It encapsulates Mike Russell's talent for crafting narratives that are as mind-bending as they are entertaining. The novel takes an unconventional form in which the reader participates by having an out of body experience, entering the story and influencing the narrative.
Magic (2020) is a magical, often comical, novel filled with the imagery of the stage magician. Told from the perspective of a young man who believes that stage magicians can perform real acts of magic, it has been praised for its unique and uplifting story, its endearing protagonist and for being entertaining and accessible at the same time as profound and unusual. In Magic, Russell’s evocative storytelling and vivid imagery create a narrative that is as touching as it is strange.
The Man Whose Wife Was the Moon (2021) is a surreal novella set during the time of the first moon landing. It exemplifies Mike Russell's skill in weaving fantastical elements with deep emotional resonance.
Mike Russell continues to live and write in England, where he remains dedicated to exploring the unusual and unknown through his uniquely strange books.
Mike Russell was awarded a Bachelor of Arts from Falmouth University and a Master of Arts from the University of Central England.
Mike Russell’s books have been described as Strange Fiction, Weird Fiction, Weird Lit, Surrealism, Fantasy Fiction… but he just likes to call them Strange Books.
“Russell’s stories are humorous, engaging and poetically direct.” Beautiful Bizarre Magazine
“Simple yet wacky, funny and charming. Mike Russell seems to have mastered the art of throwing absurdities onto paper, while keeping his writing bright and interesting at the same time.” Cultured Vultures
“I always look forward to Mike Russell’s work – he’s so out-there that it’s refreshing.” Oddly Weird Fiction
Russell's books have been praised for their originality, inventive storytelling, rich imagery and the questions they raise about the nature of reality. Russell has a distinctive narrative voice that blurs the line between reality and imagination. His work is noticeable for its minimalist style that often contrasts with the complex themes he explores.
Russell's debut Nothing Is Strange (2014) is a highly imaginative collection of short stories that introduced readers to his peculiar and mesmerising work. Each tale in the collection is a blend of the bizarre and philosophical, inviting readers to explore the deeper meanings within the stories. Russell’s subsequent short story collections Strange Medicine (2016), Strange Secrets (2018), Strange Wonders (2020) and Strange Concentrate (2023) have continued to challenge storytelling norms and question reality in a way that is as entertaining as it is unusual.
In addition to these collections, Mike Russell has authored a number of novels and novellas. Like his short story collections, these surreal and enigmatic works are characterised by their absurd humour, eccentric characters, unexpected twists and questioning of conventional thought.
Strungballs (2017) is a fantastical, dystopian, science fiction novella that delves into themes of conformity, individuality, materialism and societal structures.
The Exploding Book (2019) is a complex, surreal novel full of dark humour and astonishing imagery. It encapsulates Mike Russell's talent for crafting narratives that are as mind-bending as they are entertaining. The novel takes an unconventional form in which the reader participates by having an out of body experience, entering the story and influencing the narrative.
Magic (2020) is a magical, often comical, novel filled with the imagery of the stage magician. Told from the perspective of a young man who believes that stage magicians can perform real acts of magic, it has been praised for its unique and uplifting story, its endearing protagonist and for being entertaining and accessible at the same time as profound and unusual. In Magic, Russell’s evocative storytelling and vivid imagery create a narrative that is as touching as it is strange.
The Man Whose Wife Was the Moon (2021) is a surreal novella set during the time of the first moon landing. It exemplifies Mike Russell's skill in weaving fantastical elements with deep emotional resonance.
Mike Russell continues to live and write in England, where he remains dedicated to exploring the unusual and unknown through his uniquely strange books.
Mike Russell was awarded a Bachelor of Arts from Falmouth University and a Master of Arts from the University of Central England.
Mike Russell’s books have been described as Strange Fiction, Weird Fiction, Weird Lit, Surrealism, Fantasy Fiction… but he just likes to call them Strange Books.
“Russell’s stories are humorous, engaging and poetically direct.” Beautiful Bizarre Magazine
“Simple yet wacky, funny and charming. Mike Russell seems to have mastered the art of throwing absurdities onto paper, while keeping his writing bright and interesting at the same time.” Cultured Vultures
“I always look forward to Mike Russell’s work – he’s so out-there that it’s refreshing.” Oddly Weird Fiction
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
January 14, 2018
I received a copy of Strungballs in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank the author and also, Jay the Strangebooks secretary for this opportunity. This review will contain minor spoilers.
This is a short novella, numbering only 66 pages and when it commences, we are introduced to a young gentleman called Sydney who is in a 4m x 4m x 4m room awaiting an operation. The medical procedure is to have a cube of his flesh removed, this cities initiation into adulthood for the youngsters. He is then gifted a Strungball by Mother and Father for his bravery. This is simply a cube with a red ball on a white string, and the device is inserted into the place where his cube of flesh used to be, leaving the Stungball dangling in front of Sydney's white gown. He has the latest, coolest design and it beaming with pride. He promises to adhere to the Strungball-Rule:
"Once a Strungball is inserted it must never be removed."
The action takes place in an uncomplicated, utopian, science fiction type city full of Strungball advertising posters, where the inhabitants must always "do what is good". The city is a torus corridor containing 999 identical rooms. After room 999, room 1 comes next. Numbers, sizes, and measurements seem important to the cities tenants as well as in the way Russell writes this tale. Everything seems equal and perfect. Their existences seem very routine, such as residents going to work or school daily and like clockwork, and in addition; the aspirations most children have is to either work in the highly respected industries of Strungball sales or a Strungball advertising. This must be this world's equivalent of an actor or footballer. The curtains to Sydney's room are always closed. The city is protected by a barrier that keeps the monsters away so that the citizens can continue living their tranquil existence. All is good - until Sydney meets a gentleman called Albert who makes him question "Why?"
The characters all seem robotic and stereotypical in this city. Like they have been brainwashed. It is no coincidence that the book cover looks like it does. All except Albert, who is the only individual who has doubts and questions this good society and the need to dangle Strungball from their gowns. What does the city need the cubes of flesh for anyway?
The first half of the narrative flows at a steady pace. After this stage through, Sydney starts questioning things and then embarks on a bizarre journey where he encounters a hollow inside out giant, travels through a forest of veins, all whilst contemplating the difference between what is finite and what is infinite. He may also meet one of these fabled monsters on his travels.
Strangebooks is an apt name for this Brighton based indie press, who released this as well as Russell's short story collection Nothing is Strange. This was a highly unique, weird and perhaps even mind-altering reading experience which I enjoyed. The second half of the story does descend to another level of peculiar chaos that was sometimes confusing. I had to work hard to follow what was going on when reading towards the conclusion. I would normally rate this 3.5/5 yet, I am rounding it up to 4/5 because it is like nothing I have ever read before.
James
www.youandibooks.wordpress.com
This is a short novella, numbering only 66 pages and when it commences, we are introduced to a young gentleman called Sydney who is in a 4m x 4m x 4m room awaiting an operation. The medical procedure is to have a cube of his flesh removed, this cities initiation into adulthood for the youngsters. He is then gifted a Strungball by Mother and Father for his bravery. This is simply a cube with a red ball on a white string, and the device is inserted into the place where his cube of flesh used to be, leaving the Stungball dangling in front of Sydney's white gown. He has the latest, coolest design and it beaming with pride. He promises to adhere to the Strungball-Rule:
"Once a Strungball is inserted it must never be removed."
The action takes place in an uncomplicated, utopian, science fiction type city full of Strungball advertising posters, where the inhabitants must always "do what is good". The city is a torus corridor containing 999 identical rooms. After room 999, room 1 comes next. Numbers, sizes, and measurements seem important to the cities tenants as well as in the way Russell writes this tale. Everything seems equal and perfect. Their existences seem very routine, such as residents going to work or school daily and like clockwork, and in addition; the aspirations most children have is to either work in the highly respected industries of Strungball sales or a Strungball advertising. This must be this world's equivalent of an actor or footballer. The curtains to Sydney's room are always closed. The city is protected by a barrier that keeps the monsters away so that the citizens can continue living their tranquil existence. All is good - until Sydney meets a gentleman called Albert who makes him question "Why?"
The characters all seem robotic and stereotypical in this city. Like they have been brainwashed. It is no coincidence that the book cover looks like it does. All except Albert, who is the only individual who has doubts and questions this good society and the need to dangle Strungball from their gowns. What does the city need the cubes of flesh for anyway?
The first half of the narrative flows at a steady pace. After this stage through, Sydney starts questioning things and then embarks on a bizarre journey where he encounters a hollow inside out giant, travels through a forest of veins, all whilst contemplating the difference between what is finite and what is infinite. He may also meet one of these fabled monsters on his travels.
Strangebooks is an apt name for this Brighton based indie press, who released this as well as Russell's short story collection Nothing is Strange. This was a highly unique, weird and perhaps even mind-altering reading experience which I enjoyed. The second half of the story does descend to another level of peculiar chaos that was sometimes confusing. I had to work hard to follow what was going on when reading towards the conclusion. I would normally rate this 3.5/5 yet, I am rounding it up to 4/5 because it is like nothing I have ever read before.
James
www.youandibooks.wordpress.com
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January 3, 2020
Strungballs - A smashing hit of Mike Russell strangeness.
Having read three of the British author's short story collections - Nothing is Strange, Strange Medicine, Strange Secrets - I knew I'd be in for a hyperstrange whirligig treat with his Strungballs, and I wasn't disappointed.
Strungballs - novella as 64 pages of mind-blowing weirdness rendered in signature Mike Russell simple, crisp language. To share a morsel of what a reader will encounter, here are four snips from the opening chapter:
"A naked, white-skinned boy names Sydney lay on his back on a white bed in the centre of a white room. A square hatch opened in the centre of the ceiling and a white cube emerged and slowly descended.
Sydney lifted his head from the bed and peered down at his chest. He raised a hand and poked a finger into the space where once his flesh and bone had been. He tentatively touched one of the square hole's sides, winced, then withdrew his hand.
'We are so proud of you, Son,' said Sydney's father, then he reached into the pocket of his gown and produced a small, white box. He handed the box to Sydney who stared at it with open eyes.
The box was 4cm x 4cm.
Sidney opened the box and lifted out a white string, on the end of which was a shiny, red ball.
Sydney took a deep breath, then pressed the hard, red ball into the square hole in his chest. It fitted perfectly. The ball was wedged in tight. Sydney let go of the string, allowing it to hang down to his navel."
So there you have it. And this is only the mere beginning of Strungballs strangeness.
For me, Mike Russell's tale brings to mind what Joseph Campbell referred to as "The Hero's Journey," a journey filled with obstacles and challenges that serve as occasions for a series of radical transformations. Sydney as the archetypal hero.
Additionally, I'm reminded of Eric Fromm and his observations on what it means for a man or woman to be born into an insane society. How much of your own society would you judge insane? Have you been sliced and diced by the buzzsaw of suffocating culture? To better answer these questions, I highly recommend picking up a copy of Strungballs. Fell the Strange. Be the Strange.
British author Mike Russell, born 1973
March 20, 2023
Strungballs by Mike Russell
This book by Mike Russell is another short story. It's a great read for those who want a short, exciting read (and for those like me who didn't want to commit to another Games of Thrones book right away...).
This book is weird, if I put it lightly. The thought of a strungball was not something I have ever dreamed up in my life, but Mike Russell somehow thought this up and created a story about it! It's unique and enticing to me when someone can create such interesting thoughts, which is why I enjoyed this book.
Getting to see this unique and different world through out main character's eyes was great! It's kind of sci-fi/dystopian-esque, which would be great for readers who are interested in those topics! It's such a utopia that it's a dystopia...those books are always interesting!
The book is so precise, and so fantastical, it's hard to explain it in my own wording without ruining it. This utopia, perfect world that is so perfect that it's not is probably the best way I can word it. I love how Mike made this world so perfect, because it makes you feel uneasy and thrilled by each turn this short story takes.
Our main character seems to be the only person questioning or going against the true perfection in this novel. While this has been done a hundred times over, it's very fitting in this novel. Normally I would be annoyed and disgusted by seeing this trend over and over, but I liked it here. Mike makes it fit just well enough that I'm not questioning it.
Like Mike's other books, you will begin questioning reality and life itself. It raises so many thought provoking questions in such little space, but that's why I found it to intriguing. I have to say this is definitely my favourite book by him and I want to come back to it at a later date to see if my feelings change on this novel or not.
Overall, this maddening book will drive you over the edge with peculiarity! It's a great read!
Five out of five!
This book by Mike Russell is another short story. It's a great read for those who want a short, exciting read (and for those like me who didn't want to commit to another Games of Thrones book right away...).
This book is weird, if I put it lightly. The thought of a strungball was not something I have ever dreamed up in my life, but Mike Russell somehow thought this up and created a story about it! It's unique and enticing to me when someone can create such interesting thoughts, which is why I enjoyed this book.
Getting to see this unique and different world through out main character's eyes was great! It's kind of sci-fi/dystopian-esque, which would be great for readers who are interested in those topics! It's such a utopia that it's a dystopia...those books are always interesting!
The book is so precise, and so fantastical, it's hard to explain it in my own wording without ruining it. This utopia, perfect world that is so perfect that it's not is probably the best way I can word it. I love how Mike made this world so perfect, because it makes you feel uneasy and thrilled by each turn this short story takes.
Our main character seems to be the only person questioning or going against the true perfection in this novel. While this has been done a hundred times over, it's very fitting in this novel. Normally I would be annoyed and disgusted by seeing this trend over and over, but I liked it here. Mike makes it fit just well enough that I'm not questioning it.
Like Mike's other books, you will begin questioning reality and life itself. It raises so many thought provoking questions in such little space, but that's why I found it to intriguing. I have to say this is definitely my favourite book by him and I want to come back to it at a later date to see if my feelings change on this novel or not.
Overall, this maddening book will drive you over the edge with peculiarity! It's a great read!
Five out of five!
June 9, 2017
Sydney lives in a white sterile world, from the room, to the walls and even the curtains, everything is white.
The book opens with Sydney lying in a 4m x 4m x 4m room, awaiting to have a piece of flesh removed from his chest. When the procedure was done, he exited the room and was presented with a ‘Strungball’ by his parents. This was placed in the hole that was cut into his chest, with the cord that was attached dangling down the front of his gown. He is warned ‘Once a Strungball is inserted it must never be removed’.
The world that the family live in is made up of people always wanting to do good, where numbers and time are very important, and that the more Strungballs you have, the more important you are deemed to be.
At first Sydney loves his Strungball, but then he learns about the ‘Others’, people who can live without them. He then meets an elderly man, Albert, with lots of Strungballs. Albert puts thoughts into his head, and makes Sydney question his life, so much so, that he removes the ‘Strungball’, but what will happen to Sydney now?
I found this book very strange, but then that was what the author was hoping for. The story is an interesting one, where people believe that some type of ball inserted into their bodies makes them more superior than those without. It’s as if the whole city/world has been brainwashed.
All the residents of the city live in one building, where all the doors are numbered 1-999. The apartments all overlook a life force that is looking after them, and protecting them. This life force is made up of peoples flesh (this is where the pieces of flesh are taken when removed from the residents).
The first half of the book was interesting as we got to know the world, the people and what Strungballs were. The second half got a whole lot weirder as Sydney sets out on a quest to discover the truth about his world. In this half we have inside out giants, trees of veins, giant sex, to name but a few strange things.
The book is interesting, and most positively weird. If you like sci-fi/dystopian novels, then this will appeal to you, and with it only being 66 pages long, you should be able to get through it in one sitting.
Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
The book opens with Sydney lying in a 4m x 4m x 4m room, awaiting to have a piece of flesh removed from his chest. When the procedure was done, he exited the room and was presented with a ‘Strungball’ by his parents. This was placed in the hole that was cut into his chest, with the cord that was attached dangling down the front of his gown. He is warned ‘Once a Strungball is inserted it must never be removed’.
The world that the family live in is made up of people always wanting to do good, where numbers and time are very important, and that the more Strungballs you have, the more important you are deemed to be.
At first Sydney loves his Strungball, but then he learns about the ‘Others’, people who can live without them. He then meets an elderly man, Albert, with lots of Strungballs. Albert puts thoughts into his head, and makes Sydney question his life, so much so, that he removes the ‘Strungball’, but what will happen to Sydney now?
I found this book very strange, but then that was what the author was hoping for. The story is an interesting one, where people believe that some type of ball inserted into their bodies makes them more superior than those without. It’s as if the whole city/world has been brainwashed.
All the residents of the city live in one building, where all the doors are numbered 1-999. The apartments all overlook a life force that is looking after them, and protecting them. This life force is made up of peoples flesh (this is where the pieces of flesh are taken when removed from the residents).
The first half of the book was interesting as we got to know the world, the people and what Strungballs were. The second half got a whole lot weirder as Sydney sets out on a quest to discover the truth about his world. In this half we have inside out giants, trees of veins, giant sex, to name but a few strange things.
The book is interesting, and most positively weird. If you like sci-fi/dystopian novels, then this will appeal to you, and with it only being 66 pages long, you should be able to get through it in one sitting.
Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
February 15, 2017
I was lucky enough to be given this book in exchange for a fair and honest review, thank you Jay Strange Books Secretary for contacting me. I would of missed reading this book other wise.
Strungballs is the third book from Mike Russell and his first Novella, with only 66 pages it a nice quick read if you have a couple of hours free.
The book follows Sydney as he has his first skin removed for his first Strungball to be inserted,his skin is used to help patch up a skin barrier that protects the city from the "Others". Sydney with a little help start questioning his reality which changes his whole world.
In it's strange storyline it brought up many topics that I found thought provoking;
Is are greatest fear ourselves?
Do we follow the party line or are we strong enough to question it?
What are we willing to do to be normal?
I found the story really interesting and it will keep me thinking about the story long after finishing it.
Strungballs is the third book from Mike Russell and his first Novella, with only 66 pages it a nice quick read if you have a couple of hours free.
The book follows Sydney as he has his first skin removed for his first Strungball to be inserted,his skin is used to help patch up a skin barrier that protects the city from the "Others". Sydney with a little help start questioning his reality which changes his whole world.
In it's strange storyline it brought up many topics that I found thought provoking;
Is are greatest fear ourselves?
Do we follow the party line or are we strong enough to question it?
What are we willing to do to be normal?
I found the story really interesting and it will keep me thinking about the story long after finishing it.
September 16, 2021
I'm in agreement with Mark Alexander that this is one of the strangest books ever written, though it still pales in comparison to Bleakwarrior. It's written fairly abstractly, with strungballs substituting idealized capitalistic pursuits like high paying job, comprehensive benefits, stock options. That's what I took from it, anyway. Not sure what the Sphere of Flesh was meant to represent unless it was the system itself they've paid their way into, i.e. capitalism. As a critique of said system, it rings pretty false as most capitalist satires seem to. But this is written with just endearment enough to be charming, and Russell closes out the tale before it wears out its welcome.
July 23, 2021
Without a doubt, this is absolutely one of THE strangest and most unique books I have ever read. So much so that it pretty much defies genre or classification. I cannot even compare it to any other story.
And that is a good thing!
Bizarre and beautiful, I highly recommend giving "Strungballs" a read. It's a fairly short novella at 66 pages and only took me an hour to read, but that was an hour well spent.
And that is a good thing!
Bizarre and beautiful, I highly recommend giving "Strungballs" a read. It's a fairly short novella at 66 pages and only took me an hour to read, but that was an hour well spent.
November 26, 2018
Having already experienced Mike Russell’s stories, I began this one with an open mind and smile. I knew before I started reading that it would be like nothing I have read before, even his first book and yep after 66 pages, the entirety of this book, I can say it is unique.
It is only a small world Sydney lives in, it has identical rooms numbered from 1 – 999 which then brings it back to 1. The rooms are square and the one where I met 10-year-old Sydney very clinical. It had to be he had proudly just had his first cube of flesh removed from his chest. It was for the good of the community. His parents presented him with his first Strungball, which fitted into the hole in his chest, with a string to dangle down so that he and others could see how many cubes of flesh he had given. Everything is fine until Sydney learns of the ‘others’ and meets the man who has more Strungballs than anyone else.
I don’t try to dissect Mike Russell’s stories they are just simply what they are the day I read them, tomorrow I will see something else in them. The point is I just like how I go along with them because I have nothing to compare them to. I always think of Alice in Wonderland when I think of Mike Russell and one of the sayings in it. ‘I’m not crazy, my reality is just different than yours.’ Just perfect. What an imagination this man has, so glad he shares it.
It is only a small world Sydney lives in, it has identical rooms numbered from 1 – 999 which then brings it back to 1. The rooms are square and the one where I met 10-year-old Sydney very clinical. It had to be he had proudly just had his first cube of flesh removed from his chest. It was for the good of the community. His parents presented him with his first Strungball, which fitted into the hole in his chest, with a string to dangle down so that he and others could see how many cubes of flesh he had given. Everything is fine until Sydney learns of the ‘others’ and meets the man who has more Strungballs than anyone else.
I don’t try to dissect Mike Russell’s stories they are just simply what they are the day I read them, tomorrow I will see something else in them. The point is I just like how I go along with them because I have nothing to compare them to. I always think of Alice in Wonderland when I think of Mike Russell and one of the sayings in it. ‘I’m not crazy, my reality is just different than yours.’ Just perfect. What an imagination this man has, so glad he shares it.
July 29, 2017
(Note: I received a review copy of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review. I am glad I got a chance to read this book.)
* 2.5 Stars *
This is very strange and weird book. Honestly, I couldn’t get the main concept of the book, Strungballs. It just raised lot of questions after I finished the book.
Characters: Well, only Syndney and Albert were little likable characters in the book because of their uniqueness and ability to think out of box and they made little sense. Everyone else were weird and stereotypical and made no sense, sounded like all were under hypnosis.
What I liked? Beginning of the book was interesting. I was hooked to book till first half of the book. I loved the way author built the world in the book. It gave a good dystopian science-fiction look. All the numerical in the book, the rooms and the time was interesting. I liked the infinity concept in the book it made book very interesting. Second thing I liked was the rebellious nature of Sydney, his ability to oppose what was taught, I mean fighting stereotypical thoughts and rules, and his ability of thinking out of sphere and Strungballs. It taught to think about the greater good and the not the good that was told and accepted by everyone. Even the Anatomy part of the book was fine, it was strange but was okay. I could understand little. What I understood from the whole Anatomy part was- I could guess that this whole city and people were kind of living in cell or something or was like two identical pairs of DNA. But I’m not totally sure. I like author’s strange imagination, I haven’t come across this kind of strange books.
All stars for these points and author’s imagination and writing.
Why 2.5? Mostly I cut stars because I couldn’t grasp this following points, it all confused me a lot. May be my imagination is working properly for this book. I don’t know!
So, what I didn’t understand was- the second half of the book. That white sand part outside the sphere, exactly what place it was! I could understood two person, or whatever it was, produced the new person. But that baby part and baby eating Strungballs! I was lost at this point, and the end of the book, doesn’t make any sense. And at the end of everything, it all takes me back to the question I had at the starting of the book, what the Strungballs was and why people had that at the first place and what just happened at the end! I was thinking and thinking after I finished the book but I couldn’t get anything. Book started with very much potential but these things just gave me brain attack. I guess if there was more clarity of all these I could have enjoyed the book.
Overall, it was strange read, unique imagination, but unfortunately not for me.
Read reviews on my blog- Books Teacup and Reviews
* 2.5 Stars *
This is very strange and weird book. Honestly, I couldn’t get the main concept of the book, Strungballs. It just raised lot of questions after I finished the book.
Characters: Well, only Syndney and Albert were little likable characters in the book because of their uniqueness and ability to think out of box and they made little sense. Everyone else were weird and stereotypical and made no sense, sounded like all were under hypnosis.
What I liked? Beginning of the book was interesting. I was hooked to book till first half of the book. I loved the way author built the world in the book. It gave a good dystopian science-fiction look. All the numerical in the book, the rooms and the time was interesting. I liked the infinity concept in the book it made book very interesting. Second thing I liked was the rebellious nature of Sydney, his ability to oppose what was taught, I mean fighting stereotypical thoughts and rules, and his ability of thinking out of sphere and Strungballs. It taught to think about the greater good and the not the good that was told and accepted by everyone. Even the Anatomy part of the book was fine, it was strange but was okay. I could understand little. What I understood from the whole Anatomy part was- I could guess that this whole city and people were kind of living in cell or something or was like two identical pairs of DNA. But I’m not totally sure. I like author’s strange imagination, I haven’t come across this kind of strange books.
All stars for these points and author’s imagination and writing.
Why 2.5? Mostly I cut stars because I couldn’t grasp this following points, it all confused me a lot. May be my imagination is working properly for this book. I don’t know!
So, what I didn’t understand was- the second half of the book. That white sand part outside the sphere, exactly what place it was! I could understood two person, or whatever it was, produced the new person. But that baby part and baby eating Strungballs! I was lost at this point, and the end of the book, doesn’t make any sense. And at the end of everything, it all takes me back to the question I had at the starting of the book, what the Strungballs was and why people had that at the first place and what just happened at the end! I was thinking and thinking after I finished the book but I couldn’t get anything. Book started with very much potential but these things just gave me brain attack. I guess if there was more clarity of all these I could have enjoyed the book.
Overall, it was strange read, unique imagination, but unfortunately not for me.
Read reviews on my blog- Books Teacup and Reviews
October 4, 2019
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Strungballs, by Mike Russell is a weird and wacky novella with a unique view on society and humanity.
Strungballs follows the main character, Sydney, a ten-year-old boy who loves strungballs (red balls placed into your body via holes made by removing your flesh) as they are a physical indicator of those who have done good. Sydney lives in a world where people live in rooms numbered 1-999, they all live to serve the strungball centred society and to do so is to be good. Having just received his first strungball, Sydney is ecstatic and wants to be good by working in advertising for the strungballs. However, Sydney then meets Albert. Albert has tried to live without strungballs - a terrible thing that turns you into an 'other', a monster, but could not. This starts to get Sydney thinking about strungballs and why they are needed. Sydney eventually removes his own and escapes through the sphere of flesh (a protective wall made from hat is removed to place the strungballs) only to realise the truth about the strungballs and his world.
This was definitely a weird novella, with the second half being substantially stranger than the first. However, it was unique and he world Russell has built is definitely a pure sci-fi oddity. I appreciated how the story starts with characters who behave more or less as though they are mind controlled, referring to each other as 'Mother' and 'Father' and behaving only in ways that are deemed good. The development of this which turns into a break of consciousness, led by Sydney, was interesting as it let the reader question what is true. Do we as humans only have ourselves to fear? and should we be afraid of asking why? Ultimately it appears that to be able to ask why and embrace our fears is what it means to be free, to be happy and to be whole.
The characters are, intentionally, one dimensional and are inherently creepy, until the resolution. Having the child be the one to break the consciousness that has become the consensus and the norm was clever and allowed insight into the determination and individuality of children before society can mould them. Following the characters on this short journey was definitely an experience and to watch the development of the plot and the acceptance of humanity and its fears in such an abstract way was intriguing. This surreal take on society and our tendency to band together is definitely a thought-provoking read.
This weird and wacky novella is perfect for sci-fi lovers who prefer abstract storytelling and strong societal themes.
If you are looking for a short, but thought provoking read then this is definitely for you.
Thanks to Jay at Strangebooks for the review (e-book) copy of Strungballs by Mike Russell in exchange for my honest review.
Strungballs, by Mike Russell is a weird and wacky novella with a unique view on society and humanity.
Strungballs follows the main character, Sydney, a ten-year-old boy who loves strungballs (red balls placed into your body via holes made by removing your flesh) as they are a physical indicator of those who have done good. Sydney lives in a world where people live in rooms numbered 1-999, they all live to serve the strungball centred society and to do so is to be good. Having just received his first strungball, Sydney is ecstatic and wants to be good by working in advertising for the strungballs. However, Sydney then meets Albert. Albert has tried to live without strungballs - a terrible thing that turns you into an 'other', a monster, but could not. This starts to get Sydney thinking about strungballs and why they are needed. Sydney eventually removes his own and escapes through the sphere of flesh (a protective wall made from hat is removed to place the strungballs) only to realise the truth about the strungballs and his world.
This was definitely a weird novella, with the second half being substantially stranger than the first. However, it was unique and he world Russell has built is definitely a pure sci-fi oddity. I appreciated how the story starts with characters who behave more or less as though they are mind controlled, referring to each other as 'Mother' and 'Father' and behaving only in ways that are deemed good. The development of this which turns into a break of consciousness, led by Sydney, was interesting as it let the reader question what is true. Do we as humans only have ourselves to fear? and should we be afraid of asking why? Ultimately it appears that to be able to ask why and embrace our fears is what it means to be free, to be happy and to be whole.
The characters are, intentionally, one dimensional and are inherently creepy, until the resolution. Having the child be the one to break the consciousness that has become the consensus and the norm was clever and allowed insight into the determination and individuality of children before society can mould them. Following the characters on this short journey was definitely an experience and to watch the development of the plot and the acceptance of humanity and its fears in such an abstract way was intriguing. This surreal take on society and our tendency to band together is definitely a thought-provoking read.
This weird and wacky novella is perfect for sci-fi lovers who prefer abstract storytelling and strong societal themes.
If you are looking for a short, but thought provoking read then this is definitely for you.
Thanks to Jay at Strangebooks for the review (e-book) copy of Strungballs by Mike Russell in exchange for my honest review.
June 19, 2019
The story is revolved around Sydney, a boy living within a dystopian/futuristic community but all he knows is the corridors within his city, and the regimented robotic lifestyles he and his parents live. The people who exist in this world seem very clinical and in routine, going to work or school daily and like clockwork, and in addition; the aspirations of most children is to work in the highly respected industries of Strungball sales or a Strungball advertising.
If you’ve seen my previous reviews of Mikes work you know that I love his writing style. His ability to create such intense imagery in so little words still leaves me speechless like honestly, this book is only 66 pages!
If you’ve seen my previous reviews of Mikes work you know that I love his writing style. His ability to create such intense imagery in so little words still leaves me speechless like honestly, this book is only 66 pages!
June 1, 2017
One thing I can say about this book is that it has helped me to understand this song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2R0oE...
I have no understanding of what I've just read, it is one wild journey that is totally bananas. It starts off as potentially being a very interesting dystopian, then Mike Russell starts messing with infinity and there are giants and breast feeding and that was me lost.
It is a brilliant novel from a mind full of madness, go give it a read.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2R0oE...
I have no understanding of what I've just read, it is one wild journey that is totally bananas. It starts off as potentially being a very interesting dystopian, then Mike Russell starts messing with infinity and there are giants and breast feeding and that was me lost.
It is a brilliant novel from a mind full of madness, go give it a read.
September 15, 2017
Well what can I say? That was one of the most surreal stories I've ever read, but that made it all the more enjoyable. I don't know if it was supposed to be symbolic or metaphorical or just plain weird. Either way, this is a good short read. I look forward to reading more of Mike Russell's work.
I received this book as part of the Goodreads giveaway
I received this book as part of the Goodreads giveaway
January 10, 2018
I had the opportunity to review a new book called Strungballs by Mike Russell in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank the author Mike Russell, and Jay, the secretary for Strangebooks for reaching out to me and offering an opportunity to review my first book for my blog.
What are Strungballs? That is question that everyone wants to know when they begin reading this book. The story starts out introducing Sydney who is about to have a medical procedure done to have a portion of his skin removed. After the procedure, he is given a ‘Strungball’ by his parents to show his bravery. The ‘Strungball’ is nothing more that a red ball that is placed on a white string which is then placed in the hole where he had the skin removed with white string hanging down in front of his medical gown. The warning that he is given is “Once a Strungball is inserted, it must never be removed.”
The world that Sydney lives in is very robotic like. The citizens all seem to have standard routine that they live by and they are always focused on doing what is good. Russell also points out that numbers and time are very important to them as well. Popularity is based on the amount of ‘Strungballs’ a person has. The more, the better.
At first, Sydney is happy about his ‘Strungball.’ That is until he meets Albert, a much older gentleman who has many ‘Strungballs.’ Albert begins to mess with Sydney’s head and makes him question things about his life, which initially makes him remove the ‘Strungball’ from his chest? So, what happens to Sydney after he removes it?
This story was is definitely one of the strangest books that I have read, but it was interesting. It did draw me in as I was reading about the world Sydney lived in and after I found out what Strungballs were. When Sydney began his journey to find out the truth of the world, the story started to get a bit stranger, but in a good way.
If you enjoy sci-fi/fantasy stories, this novella is for you. It is quick read, but full of imagination and I honestly believe there is a good message that goes along with it. It is a story that will make you think after you finish it, but that is what makes it so intriguing.
What are Strungballs? That is question that everyone wants to know when they begin reading this book. The story starts out introducing Sydney who is about to have a medical procedure done to have a portion of his skin removed. After the procedure, he is given a ‘Strungball’ by his parents to show his bravery. The ‘Strungball’ is nothing more that a red ball that is placed on a white string which is then placed in the hole where he had the skin removed with white string hanging down in front of his medical gown. The warning that he is given is “Once a Strungball is inserted, it must never be removed.”
The world that Sydney lives in is very robotic like. The citizens all seem to have standard routine that they live by and they are always focused on doing what is good. Russell also points out that numbers and time are very important to them as well. Popularity is based on the amount of ‘Strungballs’ a person has. The more, the better.
At first, Sydney is happy about his ‘Strungball.’ That is until he meets Albert, a much older gentleman who has many ‘Strungballs.’ Albert begins to mess with Sydney’s head and makes him question things about his life, which initially makes him remove the ‘Strungball’ from his chest? So, what happens to Sydney after he removes it?
This story was is definitely one of the strangest books that I have read, but it was interesting. It did draw me in as I was reading about the world Sydney lived in and after I found out what Strungballs were. When Sydney began his journey to find out the truth of the world, the story started to get a bit stranger, but in a good way.
If you enjoy sci-fi/fantasy stories, this novella is for you. It is quick read, but full of imagination and I honestly believe there is a good message that goes along with it. It is a story that will make you think after you finish it, but that is what makes it so intriguing.
February 26, 2017
To put it simply, this novella is probably the weirdest thing I have ever read! (And I read some weird stuff)
But the weirdness and unfamiliar-ness of this novella is what makes it so great.
The story is revolved around Sydney, a boy living within another dimension...or a dystopian planet...but all he knows is the corridors within his city, and the regimented robotic lifestyles he and his parents live.
This civilisation has its own way of protection, and this is where Sydney's adventure begins. In a plain white room, getting a small cube of flesh removed, he doesn't know why, it is just what is done in this city.
After his disturbing operation, His proud parents then present him with his first strungball! Which is placed within the empty space where his flesh used to be.
Through the first half of this novella Sydney seems to be happy, and proud that he has become a part of this tradition...but then through a bizarre turn of events, he thinks for the fist time:
'Why?'
And this tiny little question brings on chaos! It brings down the regimented and controlled lifestyle lived through this city.
And Sydney takes the idea of 'finding yourself' to a whole other level.
Within 66 pages, Mike Russel managed to take my brain and turn it into scrambled egg!!
I really enjoyed it though, it was a complete detachment to real life, I imagine it's the kind of story David Lynch would turn into an amazing and mind bending film!
You should definitely read this novella if you're into the weird and stomach flipping strangeness of a different world. The absence of sense and understanding, just reading and enjoying a truly weird story!
If it's not your kind of reading preference I would still recommend this novella, as for me, it is something I wouldn't have thought to read. But I honestly really enjoyed it!
But the weirdness and unfamiliar-ness of this novella is what makes it so great.
The story is revolved around Sydney, a boy living within another dimension...or a dystopian planet...but all he knows is the corridors within his city, and the regimented robotic lifestyles he and his parents live.
This civilisation has its own way of protection, and this is where Sydney's adventure begins. In a plain white room, getting a small cube of flesh removed, he doesn't know why, it is just what is done in this city.
After his disturbing operation, His proud parents then present him with his first strungball! Which is placed within the empty space where his flesh used to be.
Through the first half of this novella Sydney seems to be happy, and proud that he has become a part of this tradition...but then through a bizarre turn of events, he thinks for the fist time:
'Why?'
And this tiny little question brings on chaos! It brings down the regimented and controlled lifestyle lived through this city.
And Sydney takes the idea of 'finding yourself' to a whole other level.
Within 66 pages, Mike Russel managed to take my brain and turn it into scrambled egg!!
I really enjoyed it though, it was a complete detachment to real life, I imagine it's the kind of story David Lynch would turn into an amazing and mind bending film!
You should definitely read this novella if you're into the weird and stomach flipping strangeness of a different world. The absence of sense and understanding, just reading and enjoying a truly weird story!
If it's not your kind of reading preference I would still recommend this novella, as for me, it is something I wouldn't have thought to read. But I honestly really enjoyed it!
December 11, 2017
Okay, how to put my thoughts on Strungballs into words … This definitely was a strange read, but I loved it! The writing is very factual, so it’s easy to get through. Yet, on the other hand, reading it is really not that simple. I often found myself (over)thinking and that may just be because of my Literature studies background – I’m taught to look for “more” in a story. And “more” can definitely be found in Strungballs, although I don’t quite know what that “more could be. I’d loved to have discussed this one in uni!
In my view, this book is about brainwash-like surroundings. The people, who act like robots, only know what they’ve been told since they were little and they don’t ever question that. They seem to live quite a happy life inside the torus shaped city, that’s surrounded by an infinite wall of human flesh. The removed cubes of flesh (from the blurb) are used for building and keeping this wall in good condition – in fact: this wall is the only thing that protects them from the “Others”, yet no-one seems to know who these “Others” are …
Sydney is the only one, besides Albert, who begins to question the well-loved strungballs. The people need them to keep alive – or so it seems. Sydney’s actions lead to destructive, or maybe enlightening?, events for the city which involve a forest of blood vessels, giant inside-out humans who eventually have sex, and a giant baby. Yep, like I said: this book was definitely strange.
Nevertheless, I’m looking forward to reading more stories by Mike Russell!
* I received an ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review, thank you! *
In my view, this book is about brainwash-like surroundings. The people, who act like robots, only know what they’ve been told since they were little and they don’t ever question that. They seem to live quite a happy life inside the torus shaped city, that’s surrounded by an infinite wall of human flesh. The removed cubes of flesh (from the blurb) are used for building and keeping this wall in good condition – in fact: this wall is the only thing that protects them from the “Others”, yet no-one seems to know who these “Others” are …
Sydney is the only one, besides Albert, who begins to question the well-loved strungballs. The people need them to keep alive – or so it seems. Sydney’s actions lead to destructive, or maybe enlightening?, events for the city which involve a forest of blood vessels, giant inside-out humans who eventually have sex, and a giant baby. Yep, like I said: this book was definitely strange.
Nevertheless, I’m looking forward to reading more stories by Mike Russell!
* I received an ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review, thank you! *
June 28, 2018
Thank you to the author for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review :)
Goosebumps meets Adam and Eve is the best way I can think of to describe this. This author lives up to his theme of strangeness in every book. It has a dystopian feel to it, where the main character, Sydney, is living in this city that revolves around Strungballs—a little ball on a string that attaches to your body after a piece of flesh is taken from you and placed on the ‘Sphere of Flesh’. Are you grossed out yet, because I was.
These Strungballs have value in the society—the more you have, the more you are working for the greater good and therefore have higher status. The story starts off with 10 year old Sydney getting his first Strungball, and he is living in ignorant bliss. As the story progresses, he begins to wonder what the purpose is and if he can survive without them and he goes on the pursuit to find out. There was also this really weird element of procreation near the end which is where the Adam and Eve relation comes in. Honestly one of the strangest things I have ever read, but I would recommend it for anyone who likes dystopian novels, sci-fi, or quick and odd reads!
Goosebumps meets Adam and Eve is the best way I can think of to describe this. This author lives up to his theme of strangeness in every book. It has a dystopian feel to it, where the main character, Sydney, is living in this city that revolves around Strungballs—a little ball on a string that attaches to your body after a piece of flesh is taken from you and placed on the ‘Sphere of Flesh’. Are you grossed out yet, because I was.
These Strungballs have value in the society—the more you have, the more you are working for the greater good and therefore have higher status. The story starts off with 10 year old Sydney getting his first Strungball, and he is living in ignorant bliss. As the story progresses, he begins to wonder what the purpose is and if he can survive without them and he goes on the pursuit to find out. There was also this really weird element of procreation near the end which is where the Adam and Eve relation comes in. Honestly one of the strangest things I have ever read, but I would recommend it for anyone who likes dystopian novels, sci-fi, or quick and odd reads!
July 26, 2017
I don’t even know where to start.
Okay – the facts. Strungballs was written by Mike Russell and published by StrangeBooks. This is important information to have. It's important because Strungballs is the strangest book I have ever had the pleasure of reading
Strungballs follows the life of Sydney, a 10 year boy who lives in a weird dystopian future. Past? Alternate Reality? Who Knows! Although Sydney is 10, this short novella is most definitely not for children.
Read the rest of my review of this wacky book here: http://wp.me/p58pGG-8X
This was an honest review given in exchange for a book
Okay – the facts. Strungballs was written by Mike Russell and published by StrangeBooks. This is important information to have. It's important because Strungballs is the strangest book I have ever had the pleasure of reading
Strungballs follows the life of Sydney, a 10 year boy who lives in a weird dystopian future. Past? Alternate Reality? Who Knows! Although Sydney is 10, this short novella is most definitely not for children.
Read the rest of my review of this wacky book here: http://wp.me/p58pGG-8X
This was an honest review given in exchange for a book
July 26, 2017
3.25/5⭐️s
I still have to make my mind up for this one. I don't know what to say about it yet....
I still have to make my mind up for this one. I don't know what to say about it yet....
February 27, 2017
*Honest review given in exchange for book.*
*Minor spoilers*
My review on my blog : Strungballs By Mike Russell Review |
https://emmajanemason.wordpress.com/2...
The strange and unknown has always fascinated me. What exactly defines something being strange? Is it a matter of opinion? Of following society’s rules because we believe that is the correct way? Have we all been brainwashed into a certain way of thinking because it is the ‘good’ and ‘right’ thing to do? I found myself asking all of these questions when I dived into the thrilling novella Strungballs by Mike Russell. I would like to thank the wonderful people at Strange Books especially Jay the Strange Books secretary for this opportunity. Also thank you to Mike Russell for creating such an intriguing story and bringing my imagination to life.
Strungballs follows Sydney, a ten-year old boy who has just had a cube of his flesh removed in order for him to receive his first Strungball. Not long after he begins to question what Strungballs are and who are the others? There is just one rule that must never be broken. Never remove your Strungball.
Everything in Strungballs is very precise, the measurements, the layouts of rooms and even the stillness of the characters emotions. It is all very sterile and robotic. Actions have to be carried out in a certain fashion and to the correct protocol. To go against it would not be good which is what adds to the suspense. The reader wants to desperately know what happens if you fall out of line or dare I say remove their Strungball. You are compelled to read on to discover the secrets that are hidden outside the human flesh walls of the city.
The city appears very much like a cult, to serve the sphere of flesh and to always do what is ‘good.’ To always obey a higher power. I loved the idea of humans living in a city made out of human flesh. It’s disturbing and cleverly used as at least they are recycling with re-useable resources. They sacrifice themselves in order to be protected which is ironic as the more cubes of flesh they lose, the less of a person they become. When Sydney meets Albert a ninety year old man who no longer feels like a person anymore because he is mostly holes, he begins to question everything. Albert wishes he knew what it is he needs but struggles to find it. This reminded me of how as we grow older we sometimes lose sight of what is important to us. Friends become strangers and family become distant. We get so caught up in life following a routine that we become robots following orders. Living to work and forgetting that we should be living our lives to the full as life is forever fleeting. It won’t last forever. Before we know it, we will all become dust and bones in the sand. We should live and enjoy life, every second. The good and the bad.
What I like about Strungballs is that you have a ten-year old boy questioning why. Why are Strungballs so important? Why must they have them? Why are others monsters? The adults have accepted that this is their way of life yet a young boy doesn’t understand why this is so. He starts to rebel against society’s way of thinking and takes it upon himself to break free, becoming one with himself and cutting his ties to that world. He wants more and doesn’t want to settle for what is expected of him. It’s pleasant to see as taking control of your life is something we should all do. We should never let anything or anyone control us. It’s a powerful important message that Strungballs echoes; something extremely relatable in today’s world.
The strong theme of finite and what is infinite really brings the story full circle. Finite has an end where as infinite is forever. The sphere of flesh would have been infinite, standing strong. As soon as a cube starts to whither it is replaced with a fresh one. Humans are finite and have an end which is the scary part. We will all die one day and we all know it. It’s the unknown that we are truly scared of which I think this novella deals with perfectly. It asks the reader to question what are we scared of? Ourselves? Do we all want to just be loved and be accepted for who we are? Do we have to follow society’s rules or should we make our own rules? Strungballs if anything definitely raises a lot of questions and gets you thinking. Which to me personally is a good thing.
I found the ending truly beautiful, the imagery of the two giants bringing life into the world, how the living and the dead were all together and the sheer bliss of being free.
I can visualise this story being made into a film. The amount of detail given such as the sphere of flesh, the inside-out giants and the empty void would be perfect on the big screen. *hint hint*
I give this novella a four out of five star rating.
It’s so refreshing to read something so different and creatively unique that really dances with your imagination. Strange is always good in my book.
*Minor spoilers*
My review on my blog : Strungballs By Mike Russell Review |
https://emmajanemason.wordpress.com/2...
The strange and unknown has always fascinated me. What exactly defines something being strange? Is it a matter of opinion? Of following society’s rules because we believe that is the correct way? Have we all been brainwashed into a certain way of thinking because it is the ‘good’ and ‘right’ thing to do? I found myself asking all of these questions when I dived into the thrilling novella Strungballs by Mike Russell. I would like to thank the wonderful people at Strange Books especially Jay the Strange Books secretary for this opportunity. Also thank you to Mike Russell for creating such an intriguing story and bringing my imagination to life.
Strungballs follows Sydney, a ten-year old boy who has just had a cube of his flesh removed in order for him to receive his first Strungball. Not long after he begins to question what Strungballs are and who are the others? There is just one rule that must never be broken. Never remove your Strungball.
Everything in Strungballs is very precise, the measurements, the layouts of rooms and even the stillness of the characters emotions. It is all very sterile and robotic. Actions have to be carried out in a certain fashion and to the correct protocol. To go against it would not be good which is what adds to the suspense. The reader wants to desperately know what happens if you fall out of line or dare I say remove their Strungball. You are compelled to read on to discover the secrets that are hidden outside the human flesh walls of the city.
The city appears very much like a cult, to serve the sphere of flesh and to always do what is ‘good.’ To always obey a higher power. I loved the idea of humans living in a city made out of human flesh. It’s disturbing and cleverly used as at least they are recycling with re-useable resources. They sacrifice themselves in order to be protected which is ironic as the more cubes of flesh they lose, the less of a person they become. When Sydney meets Albert a ninety year old man who no longer feels like a person anymore because he is mostly holes, he begins to question everything. Albert wishes he knew what it is he needs but struggles to find it. This reminded me of how as we grow older we sometimes lose sight of what is important to us. Friends become strangers and family become distant. We get so caught up in life following a routine that we become robots following orders. Living to work and forgetting that we should be living our lives to the full as life is forever fleeting. It won’t last forever. Before we know it, we will all become dust and bones in the sand. We should live and enjoy life, every second. The good and the bad.
What I like about Strungballs is that you have a ten-year old boy questioning why. Why are Strungballs so important? Why must they have them? Why are others monsters? The adults have accepted that this is their way of life yet a young boy doesn’t understand why this is so. He starts to rebel against society’s way of thinking and takes it upon himself to break free, becoming one with himself and cutting his ties to that world. He wants more and doesn’t want to settle for what is expected of him. It’s pleasant to see as taking control of your life is something we should all do. We should never let anything or anyone control us. It’s a powerful important message that Strungballs echoes; something extremely relatable in today’s world.
The strong theme of finite and what is infinite really brings the story full circle. Finite has an end where as infinite is forever. The sphere of flesh would have been infinite, standing strong. As soon as a cube starts to whither it is replaced with a fresh one. Humans are finite and have an end which is the scary part. We will all die one day and we all know it. It’s the unknown that we are truly scared of which I think this novella deals with perfectly. It asks the reader to question what are we scared of? Ourselves? Do we all want to just be loved and be accepted for who we are? Do we have to follow society’s rules or should we make our own rules? Strungballs if anything definitely raises a lot of questions and gets you thinking. Which to me personally is a good thing.
I found the ending truly beautiful, the imagery of the two giants bringing life into the world, how the living and the dead were all together and the sheer bliss of being free.
I can visualise this story being made into a film. The amount of detail given such as the sphere of flesh, the inside-out giants and the empty void would be perfect on the big screen. *hint hint*
I give this novella a four out of five star rating.
It’s so refreshing to read something so different and creatively unique that really dances with your imagination. Strange is always good in my book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2022
Another weird and wonderful book from this author. Once again hard to describe, or even explain, but very easy to get sucked in to the story. Really enjoyable. Short and sweet - can easily be read in one sitting, but it might linger.
March 25, 2017
Rating: 3/5
Genre: Weird Fiction, Dystopian
Recommended Age: 18+. Sex is mentioned and described a bit, so if you're allowed to read that then go ahead, but if not then don't please.
Favorite Quote: "I will never wear one again."
I was requested to read and review this book by Strangebooks Publishing Company. This did not influence my opinions.
Ever since the dawn of man there have been rites of ppassages that help transition young boys and girls into adulthood. Ten-year-old Sydney is about to experience his own rite of passage. He will be receiving his first Strungball. This will be his first of many Strungballs in his lifetime. To receive his Strungball though he must have a cube of flesh removed from his chest. The cube of flesh will travel and become apart of the wall that surrounds his city. When the procedure is over Sydney is supposed to be happy and good, but he can't stop but wonder about why we need Strungballs and what happens if we pull them out of the Strungball recesses in our bodies. It is then Sydney discovers a deeper reason for needing them than could ever be imagined.
Can you fault a book that's marketed as being strange? In my opinion, you can't. While this little novella (66 pages in length) was a bit odd, it had a decent story to it. The overall story was very good. It was your average dystopian novel for the most part and it would have been a good introductory story for beginning dystopian readers had it not had some mature scenes in it towards the end. The quality of writing and plot development, although it got outlandish at the end, was very well done and it made the story enjoyable for the most part and the story was a very easy read. The story also seemed to be conveying a deeper meaning about how to remain true to oneself and to question everyday life.
However, this book had some issues in my opinion. I feel that whatever message the author was trying to convey became lost in the strangeness of the story. While I generally enjoyed it, towards the end I was wondering what the author could possibly be trying to say with the scenes. There were also some unnecessary scenes that, without them, would have made the story better. Some of the more mature scenes could have been left out and the book would have been adequate for younger audiences. In fact, for the first half of the book, I was thinking the book would have been marvelous for a high school or college English class. I could tell the author was trying to send some message and I believe the book to not only be of weird fiction but also a dystopian. If the book was just a bit clearer in the meaning I think it would have met it's mark. The book also had some issues with pacing and characters. The pacing was very fast, even for a novella. I believe the author had more than enough material to slow down the scenes and have a full length novel if he wanted. I also think the characters needed a bit more explanation and back story. I kept wondering if I would get an explanation for how the city came to be and what motivated the characters to act as they did, but the explanations fell short in my opinion. I also had an issue with one of the scenes where there is bullying. If the characters have this idea of doing good, then why does bullying exist?
I'd recommend this book for any adults or children who are allowed to read mature material to read it. It's a quick read and it was a decent book all in all.
Genre: Weird Fiction, Dystopian
Recommended Age: 18+. Sex is mentioned and described a bit, so if you're allowed to read that then go ahead, but if not then don't please.
Favorite Quote: "I will never wear one again."
I was requested to read and review this book by Strangebooks Publishing Company. This did not influence my opinions.
Ever since the dawn of man there have been rites of ppassages that help transition young boys and girls into adulthood. Ten-year-old Sydney is about to experience his own rite of passage. He will be receiving his first Strungball. This will be his first of many Strungballs in his lifetime. To receive his Strungball though he must have a cube of flesh removed from his chest. The cube of flesh will travel and become apart of the wall that surrounds his city. When the procedure is over Sydney is supposed to be happy and good, but he can't stop but wonder about why we need Strungballs and what happens if we pull them out of the Strungball recesses in our bodies. It is then Sydney discovers a deeper reason for needing them than could ever be imagined.
Can you fault a book that's marketed as being strange? In my opinion, you can't. While this little novella (66 pages in length) was a bit odd, it had a decent story to it. The overall story was very good. It was your average dystopian novel for the most part and it would have been a good introductory story for beginning dystopian readers had it not had some mature scenes in it towards the end. The quality of writing and plot development, although it got outlandish at the end, was very well done and it made the story enjoyable for the most part and the story was a very easy read. The story also seemed to be conveying a deeper meaning about how to remain true to oneself and to question everyday life.
However, this book had some issues in my opinion. I feel that whatever message the author was trying to convey became lost in the strangeness of the story. While I generally enjoyed it, towards the end I was wondering what the author could possibly be trying to say with the scenes. There were also some unnecessary scenes that, without them, would have made the story better. Some of the more mature scenes could have been left out and the book would have been adequate for younger audiences. In fact, for the first half of the book, I was thinking the book would have been marvelous for a high school or college English class. I could tell the author was trying to send some message and I believe the book to not only be of weird fiction but also a dystopian. If the book was just a bit clearer in the meaning I think it would have met it's mark. The book also had some issues with pacing and characters. The pacing was very fast, even for a novella. I believe the author had more than enough material to slow down the scenes and have a full length novel if he wanted. I also think the characters needed a bit more explanation and back story. I kept wondering if I would get an explanation for how the city came to be and what motivated the characters to act as they did, but the explanations fell short in my opinion. I also had an issue with one of the scenes where there is bullying. If the characters have this idea of doing good, then why does bullying exist?
I'd recommend this book for any adults or children who are allowed to read mature material to read it. It's a quick read and it was a decent book all in all.
March 30, 2017
After reading Strungballs I have come to the conclusion that Mike Russell has created his own area of fiction, and he is right to call them strange.
Strange, surreal, odd, but absolutely immersive is how I’d describe his writing style and the narrative that is born from it.
I read this novella in just one day. I began by reading it on the bus to uni, and when I got to uni I sat in the library and read some more. My day was happily punctuated by the thought of being able to steal little moments to read more Strungballs.
It’s as though somebody gave me an addictive substance at the start of the day, and by the end of it I’d consumed the lot and wanted more. That substance can only be fiction done Mike Russell-style.
At first, the book reads like a children’s story, or the beginning of a YA book. There is a clear element of Sydney, our 10 year old protagonist, going through a rite of passage. But it is no ordinary ritual…he must have a chunk of his flesh taken from his literally white body, and have the gap filled by what I imagine to look like a toy from a joke shop – a Strungball.
A Strungball is simply a ball attached to a bit of string. That’s it. But society revolves around it. The more you have, the higher you are in status and good-ness. There are different ‘models’ and posters to advertise the importance of Strungballs.
Never has something so simple as a ball on a bit of string become so unsettling while still managing to make me curious in a way I’ve never experienced before with a book.
The addictiveness came mostly from how bizarre the story was, and also from the fact that I couldn’t tell where the narrative was going. I didn’t know what Sydney was going to do after having his Strungball for the first time, I didn’t know what the time frame for the narrative was going to be…and this just made me read on.
I think there’s a lot of symbolism and deeper meaning in this book, and I’m not quite sure that I understand it all completely. I’m pretty sure Russell is sending out messages about gender, society, family, sex and relationships…but also about what it means to be human. There’s a bit of everything in it, merged together like cubes of flesh to form one big meaningful message.
But because of how surreal the story is, the message sort of gets lost, but that might just be my mind.
The ending is like an hallucination. It’s like one of those weird dreams that you still remember when you wake up and you wonder how on earth your imagination could come up with something so surreal. It’s heavy on the symbolism and you’d be forgiven for not understanding what it all means. Just read it and enjoy every single strange second.
To sum up: Strungballs was like walking into a surrealist art exhibition. You are surrounded by things you don’t quite understand but that are still oddly familiar. You think it can’t get weirder, and then it does. You wonder if it’s art, and decide that it’s blown your mind too much for it not to be art.
Note: This is an honest review given in exchange for the book.
Strange, surreal, odd, but absolutely immersive is how I’d describe his writing style and the narrative that is born from it.
I read this novella in just one day. I began by reading it on the bus to uni, and when I got to uni I sat in the library and read some more. My day was happily punctuated by the thought of being able to steal little moments to read more Strungballs.
It’s as though somebody gave me an addictive substance at the start of the day, and by the end of it I’d consumed the lot and wanted more. That substance can only be fiction done Mike Russell-style.
At first, the book reads like a children’s story, or the beginning of a YA book. There is a clear element of Sydney, our 10 year old protagonist, going through a rite of passage. But it is no ordinary ritual…he must have a chunk of his flesh taken from his literally white body, and have the gap filled by what I imagine to look like a toy from a joke shop – a Strungball.
A Strungball is simply a ball attached to a bit of string. That’s it. But society revolves around it. The more you have, the higher you are in status and good-ness. There are different ‘models’ and posters to advertise the importance of Strungballs.
Never has something so simple as a ball on a bit of string become so unsettling while still managing to make me curious in a way I’ve never experienced before with a book.
The addictiveness came mostly from how bizarre the story was, and also from the fact that I couldn’t tell where the narrative was going. I didn’t know what Sydney was going to do after having his Strungball for the first time, I didn’t know what the time frame for the narrative was going to be…and this just made me read on.
I think there’s a lot of symbolism and deeper meaning in this book, and I’m not quite sure that I understand it all completely. I’m pretty sure Russell is sending out messages about gender, society, family, sex and relationships…but also about what it means to be human. There’s a bit of everything in it, merged together like cubes of flesh to form one big meaningful message.
But because of how surreal the story is, the message sort of gets lost, but that might just be my mind.
The ending is like an hallucination. It’s like one of those weird dreams that you still remember when you wake up and you wonder how on earth your imagination could come up with something so surreal. It’s heavy on the symbolism and you’d be forgiven for not understanding what it all means. Just read it and enjoy every single strange second.
To sum up: Strungballs was like walking into a surrealist art exhibition. You are surrounded by things you don’t quite understand but that are still oddly familiar. You think it can’t get weirder, and then it does. You wonder if it’s art, and decide that it’s blown your mind too much for it not to be art.
Note: This is an honest review given in exchange for the book.
November 24, 2017
Full disclosure – I was provided a copy of this book by the author but have voluntarily chosen to write a review. All opinions are my own.
A strange dystopian thought provoker
Strungballs is a short novella by author Mike Russell. In it, we follow a young boy by the name of Sydney as he undergoes a procedure to remove a square of flesh from his chest. After the procedure, his father presents him with a “strungball” which is a hard red ball on a string that is to be inserted into the newly created recess in his body. Upon receipt of his new prize Sydney is given the stern warning that once the strungball inserted, it can never be removed. In Sydney’s harsh utilitarian society his world is very ordered. All rooms in the city are the same dimensions, have the same color schemes and all look out over the same flesh toned lifeforce that engulfs his city and protects them from the “Others”, people who have chosen a life without strungballs. Sydney’s world is finite as well. In his circular world with all rooms numbered 1-999, Sydney can only go so far before he finds himself back where he was. All energy and work is expended for the good of the Sphere of Flesh that engulfs them. Sydney is content to continue his life for the good of the flesh until he meets an old man named Arthur who challenges Sydney to question the norm and ask the question that does not even seem to have been posed in his society; “Why?”
Strungballs at its core is Sydney’s pursuit of “Why”. Why do I need Strungballs? Why can’t I remove them? Why are we so afraid of the “Others”. It is also so much more. When Sydney ventures outside of his ordered society, he finds the world fascinating and terrifying, but he also finds an experience far removed from what he has experienced thus far that he knows that he must try to rescue those still in the ordered sphere of the city.
This is a small offering, coming in at a little under 70 pages, but the story conveyed is a definite thought provoker. As I read through and after watching Sydney’s reaction to the removal of his strungball I felt like this could be an allegory about things we are addicted to in life and the discovery of what life has to offer once those addictions are broken. With so much going on in this short novella this is one that I will most likely re read in the future and get a different meaning from or notice something that I missed in previous reads. If you like your fiction weird, almost to the point of being disturbing and thought provoking. If you are a fan of dystopian worlds and stories that have a deeper meaning than what is on the surface, Strungballs will be a good read for you.
A strange dystopian thought provoker
Strungballs is a short novella by author Mike Russell. In it, we follow a young boy by the name of Sydney as he undergoes a procedure to remove a square of flesh from his chest. After the procedure, his father presents him with a “strungball” which is a hard red ball on a string that is to be inserted into the newly created recess in his body. Upon receipt of his new prize Sydney is given the stern warning that once the strungball inserted, it can never be removed. In Sydney’s harsh utilitarian society his world is very ordered. All rooms in the city are the same dimensions, have the same color schemes and all look out over the same flesh toned lifeforce that engulfs his city and protects them from the “Others”, people who have chosen a life without strungballs. Sydney’s world is finite as well. In his circular world with all rooms numbered 1-999, Sydney can only go so far before he finds himself back where he was. All energy and work is expended for the good of the Sphere of Flesh that engulfs them. Sydney is content to continue his life for the good of the flesh until he meets an old man named Arthur who challenges Sydney to question the norm and ask the question that does not even seem to have been posed in his society; “Why?”
Strungballs at its core is Sydney’s pursuit of “Why”. Why do I need Strungballs? Why can’t I remove them? Why are we so afraid of the “Others”. It is also so much more. When Sydney ventures outside of his ordered society, he finds the world fascinating and terrifying, but he also finds an experience far removed from what he has experienced thus far that he knows that he must try to rescue those still in the ordered sphere of the city.
This is a small offering, coming in at a little under 70 pages, but the story conveyed is a definite thought provoker. As I read through and after watching Sydney’s reaction to the removal of his strungball I felt like this could be an allegory about things we are addicted to in life and the discovery of what life has to offer once those addictions are broken. With so much going on in this short novella this is one that I will most likely re read in the future and get a different meaning from or notice something that I missed in previous reads. If you like your fiction weird, almost to the point of being disturbing and thought provoking. If you are a fan of dystopian worlds and stories that have a deeper meaning than what is on the surface, Strungballs will be a good read for you.
April 21, 2017
Ordered and mesmeric. This family’s interactions can pause to an extent that almost becomes non existent. Do they exist only if all is involved in the conversation? An eerie language that connects time, memories and moments described to the second. So aware of time, of measurements, the foundation of their lives. This seems to be all they have except for Strungballs. One can hear the buzz of boredom in their ears. What do they have besides every boys dream. The most sort after accoutrement with all its status, dangly strings and models. So coveted one must remove a piece of flesh for, again and again until nothing really holds you together.
Reading this short story has one’s imagination suffering as we plod through the minimal and awkward silences that is their lives. We peer into it and can’t help being pulled into its trance and rhythm. It sounds unpleasant but that is good storytelling.
Ten year old Sydney is undergoing a rites of passage, done with a beautiful vision on the perils of materialism and human conditioning. His leap into a different spirituality that he discovers via room 333 and new friend Albert is a beautiful awakening. Where the body and his fears are non existent, triggers the spark for knowledge and realisation of his individuality. Unknown king of the inquisitive, he very quickly questions doctrine and all the whitewash and begins the great unlearning. Sydney is on the search to find himself.
All cultures are full of strange stories, telling them is in our dna. This sci-fi dystopian fable is a gem. I wanted it fatter though, a little more filler could of helped us hold onto its message more. So although, it is a quickie, I enjoyed the imagery. The proud father whose dreams of his son selling or promoting Strungballs is paramount, the melancholic suppressed mother in a backdrop of tears and fears, white, black and red, flesh & robot nurses is vivid. The slow minimalism perfectly empty. The reproduction anatomy lesson in the middle jarred a little, though amused enough. If that particular imparting of fact was extended into a psychedelic touchy feely fun parlour I would of enjoyed the trip a little more and a little longer. Overall, I got to know Sydney and wanted to see how his quest would end, so this taste of author of Mike Russell has me prying into his world. Strange days indeed. You can purchase Strungballs and check out many more stories and Mike’s empire via his website StrangeBooks
Reading this short story has one’s imagination suffering as we plod through the minimal and awkward silences that is their lives. We peer into it and can’t help being pulled into its trance and rhythm. It sounds unpleasant but that is good storytelling.
Ten year old Sydney is undergoing a rites of passage, done with a beautiful vision on the perils of materialism and human conditioning. His leap into a different spirituality that he discovers via room 333 and new friend Albert is a beautiful awakening. Where the body and his fears are non existent, triggers the spark for knowledge and realisation of his individuality. Unknown king of the inquisitive, he very quickly questions doctrine and all the whitewash and begins the great unlearning. Sydney is on the search to find himself.
All cultures are full of strange stories, telling them is in our dna. This sci-fi dystopian fable is a gem. I wanted it fatter though, a little more filler could of helped us hold onto its message more. So although, it is a quickie, I enjoyed the imagery. The proud father whose dreams of his son selling or promoting Strungballs is paramount, the melancholic suppressed mother in a backdrop of tears and fears, white, black and red, flesh & robot nurses is vivid. The slow minimalism perfectly empty. The reproduction anatomy lesson in the middle jarred a little, though amused enough. If that particular imparting of fact was extended into a psychedelic touchy feely fun parlour I would of enjoyed the trip a little more and a little longer. Overall, I got to know Sydney and wanted to see how his quest would end, so this taste of author of Mike Russell has me prying into his world. Strange days indeed. You can purchase Strungballs and check out many more stories and Mike’s empire via his website StrangeBooks
May 11, 2017
This review originally appeared here: https://joyfulantidotes.com/2017/03/1...
Strungballs by Mike Russell may be one of the strangest books out there. It follows the story of Sydney, a ten-year-old boy who is about to have his first cube of flesh removed. The flesh will be placed with the flesh of the city’s other inhabitants in a big sphere used to protect them from the “Others”. Sydney will receive a Strungball, a red ball on white string, as a replacement for the flesh. Once a Strungball is inserted, it must never be removed.
In the case of this novella, weird doesn’t necessarily mean bad. Only 66 pages long, it is a fast read and it gets your mind ticking trying to figure the plotline out. Attempting not to provide any spoilers, this is what ran through my mind while reading:
Russell is reflecting on consumerism. When Sydney receives his Strungball, he is very excited and shows some classmates what he believes is to be the newest model. But it is not, and they laugh. It is probably impossible to have the latest model. There is an entire industry set around producing and marketing Strungballs. It reflects the present day where people are made to believe they always need to have something more to be happy. And they will follow any trend in order to appear normal.
Russell believes we have to step out of our comfort zones, to question everything in order to be happy with oneself. There is some good imagery of duplication and climbing through flesh which exemplified this for me.
But, overall, I can’t say I 100% figured out what this book was about. That is not to say I didn’t have fun trying. I am interested in this new (at least to me) genre of ‘strange fiction’ and I am looking forward to reading some more. If you want to join me, start with the highly unusual and entertaining Strungballs.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Strungballs by Mike Russell may be one of the strangest books out there. It follows the story of Sydney, a ten-year-old boy who is about to have his first cube of flesh removed. The flesh will be placed with the flesh of the city’s other inhabitants in a big sphere used to protect them from the “Others”. Sydney will receive a Strungball, a red ball on white string, as a replacement for the flesh. Once a Strungball is inserted, it must never be removed.
In the case of this novella, weird doesn’t necessarily mean bad. Only 66 pages long, it is a fast read and it gets your mind ticking trying to figure the plotline out. Attempting not to provide any spoilers, this is what ran through my mind while reading:
Russell is reflecting on consumerism. When Sydney receives his Strungball, he is very excited and shows some classmates what he believes is to be the newest model. But it is not, and they laugh. It is probably impossible to have the latest model. There is an entire industry set around producing and marketing Strungballs. It reflects the present day where people are made to believe they always need to have something more to be happy. And they will follow any trend in order to appear normal.
Russell believes we have to step out of our comfort zones, to question everything in order to be happy with oneself. There is some good imagery of duplication and climbing through flesh which exemplified this for me.
But, overall, I can’t say I 100% figured out what this book was about. That is not to say I didn’t have fun trying. I am interested in this new (at least to me) genre of ‘strange fiction’ and I am looking forward to reading some more. If you want to join me, start with the highly unusual and entertaining Strungballs.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2018
I received a copy of Strungballs in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank the author and also, Jay the Strangebooks secretary for this opportunity.
In Strungballs by Mike Russell, this 100 page novella is the meaning of ‘strange’ but I loved it!
We follow the journey of ten-year-old boy named Sydney, whose life just doesn’t seem to make sense, until he is given his strungballs. Now, this book was incredibly strange but in a good way. Sydney’s character is an adventurous young boy who must have a cube of flesh removed before he becomes a man and earns his ‘strungballs. In this uniquely bizarre story, Sydney finds the true meaning behind the world he lives in but not until he breaks down the wall and finds out the meaning behind the wall that keeps him there.
“Once a strungball is inserted, it must never be removed.”
I found the main character Sydney to be infectious as his curiosity grew more profound as the novella continued. With many questions asked comes many unturned stones that nobody understands but Sydney is willing to fight for.
I loved the world Russell built as he describes everything very distinctively, even down to the centimetres and timelines down to the seconds. Yes, this book was strange but it’s meant to be so Mike Russell really hit it on the head with this one.
One concept that through me off was the giants and their baby...why? Well, in order for everyone to come together, so to speak without giving out any spoilers, it didn’t really make sense to me which is why I only gave the book 4 stars.
I would recommend this short story to anyone who loves a short compelling story. I found the strangeness of the novel to be captivating and give off the impression of Mike’s weird mind. I have never read anything like Strungballs, but I’m glad I did.
In Strungballs by Mike Russell, this 100 page novella is the meaning of ‘strange’ but I loved it!
We follow the journey of ten-year-old boy named Sydney, whose life just doesn’t seem to make sense, until he is given his strungballs. Now, this book was incredibly strange but in a good way. Sydney’s character is an adventurous young boy who must have a cube of flesh removed before he becomes a man and earns his ‘strungballs. In this uniquely bizarre story, Sydney finds the true meaning behind the world he lives in but not until he breaks down the wall and finds out the meaning behind the wall that keeps him there.
“Once a strungball is inserted, it must never be removed.”
I found the main character Sydney to be infectious as his curiosity grew more profound as the novella continued. With many questions asked comes many unturned stones that nobody understands but Sydney is willing to fight for.
I loved the world Russell built as he describes everything very distinctively, even down to the centimetres and timelines down to the seconds. Yes, this book was strange but it’s meant to be so Mike Russell really hit it on the head with this one.
One concept that through me off was the giants and their baby...why? Well, in order for everyone to come together, so to speak without giving out any spoilers, it didn’t really make sense to me which is why I only gave the book 4 stars.
I would recommend this short story to anyone who loves a short compelling story. I found the strangeness of the novel to be captivating and give off the impression of Mike’s weird mind. I have never read anything like Strungballs, but I’m glad I did.
January 8, 2018
**I received this book from the publisher/author in exchange for an honest review**
The only way I can describe this novel is gloriously weird. Think Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman weird.
This book follows Sydney, a young boy living in a dystopian/futuristic community where they donate flesh. Yep. Donate flesh. Every so often these robots appear and harvest a chunk of flesh from a persons body. Cauterising it as they do so. Said people are then presented with a red ball with a string attached known as Strungballs, that they pop into the fleshless hole they've just acquired. Similar to Divergent in the sense that this community is also very regimented, to speak out against something or someone is to make oneself an 'other'.
After Sydney acquires his first Strungball he starts to question what and why. Why do they donate flesh? What is the purpose of it?
Considering the novel is only sixty-four pages long it certainly packed a lot into the novel. The description was minimal but it felt like an intentional move on Mike's part. It made the novel seem very clinical and sterile, that they only focus was the Strungballs and their purpose. In fact the most notable part of the description was the part that numbers played. The dimensions of the room, the time spent doing a certain task was described down to the seconds. I actually loved this aspect.
If you get a chance, give this a read. I promise you, it's unlike anything you've ever read before.
www.a-novel-idea.co.uk
The only way I can describe this novel is gloriously weird. Think Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman weird.
This book follows Sydney, a young boy living in a dystopian/futuristic community where they donate flesh. Yep. Donate flesh. Every so often these robots appear and harvest a chunk of flesh from a persons body. Cauterising it as they do so. Said people are then presented with a red ball with a string attached known as Strungballs, that they pop into the fleshless hole they've just acquired. Similar to Divergent in the sense that this community is also very regimented, to speak out against something or someone is to make oneself an 'other'.
After Sydney acquires his first Strungball he starts to question what and why. Why do they donate flesh? What is the purpose of it?
Considering the novel is only sixty-four pages long it certainly packed a lot into the novel. The description was minimal but it felt like an intentional move on Mike's part. It made the novel seem very clinical and sterile, that they only focus was the Strungballs and their purpose. In fact the most notable part of the description was the part that numbers played. The dimensions of the room, the time spent doing a certain task was described down to the seconds. I actually loved this aspect.
If you get a chance, give this a read. I promise you, it's unlike anything you've ever read before.
www.a-novel-idea.co.uk
June 25, 2020
"Once a Strungball is inserted it must never be removed."
Strungballs is a strange and surreal read but at 66 pages it is just the right length to get you thinking. We are introduced to strungballs through 10 year old Sydney as he has his first cube of flesh removed from his chest to make way for his first strungball - a red ball attached to the end of a white string. His cube of flesh is taken to be attached to the skin barrier which protects his city from "the Others". After a chance encounter Sydney is put on a path of questioning his life and the reasons behind it.
The writing style is clear and engaging but as the story progresses we are introduced to stranger descriptions and events which were a bit hard to follow at times. I enjoyed the numerical references to the dimensions of rooms and objects which enhanced the white, sterile feel of the environment. The concept of infinity was the most intriguing and it forms the overarching backbone of the novella.
One question permeates throughout, which is "why?" Why are things done the way they are do they hide a greater purpose? As Sydney unravels the why of strungballs, we unravel the why of our lives. Just like the giants in the story, readers are encouraged to look within themselves and turn their notions of the world inside out. There is a lot of symbolism throughout which lends itself well to multiple readings.
Recommended for fans of strange fiction.
Strungballs is a strange and surreal read but at 66 pages it is just the right length to get you thinking. We are introduced to strungballs through 10 year old Sydney as he has his first cube of flesh removed from his chest to make way for his first strungball - a red ball attached to the end of a white string. His cube of flesh is taken to be attached to the skin barrier which protects his city from "the Others". After a chance encounter Sydney is put on a path of questioning his life and the reasons behind it.
The writing style is clear and engaging but as the story progresses we are introduced to stranger descriptions and events which were a bit hard to follow at times. I enjoyed the numerical references to the dimensions of rooms and objects which enhanced the white, sterile feel of the environment. The concept of infinity was the most intriguing and it forms the overarching backbone of the novella.
One question permeates throughout, which is "why?" Why are things done the way they are do they hide a greater purpose? As Sydney unravels the why of strungballs, we unravel the why of our lives. Just like the giants in the story, readers are encouraged to look within themselves and turn their notions of the world inside out. There is a lot of symbolism throughout which lends itself well to multiple readings.
Recommended for fans of strange fiction.
December 14, 2022
definitely a weird book but i don’t expect anything less from mike russell, even if it’s been ages since i last read one of his books. aside from the strangeness of this novelette, i did connect some parts of it with the oppression of society but i still can’t wrap my mind around the ending. at 3 in the morning, maybe it’s best to leave it before i start spiraling
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