The Trouble With You Is: And Other Stories

by Susan Jackson Rodgers

Rodgers, Susan Jackson

Genres: Short Stories, Fiction

158 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2004

Reviews

[Drew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written.
The sign of a solid short story: I was sad to see each one end.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's inexplicable why I like this collection of short stories as much as I do. I don't read short stories often, and I've never reread a collection like I did with this one. I remember reading this several years ago, forgetting the title, but wanting very much to read it again. So when I ran across it at the local bookstore a few weeks ago, I had to pick it up. There's nothing especially special about these stories; in fact they're rather simple. The writing isn't particularly amazing either--very good, but not fabulous. In fact, some of the stories remind me of assignments completed for a college creative writing class. So, I'm not really sure why I love them so much. It could possibly be that I identify with a lot of the characters. Even though none of their lives mirror my own exactly, I have definitely felt that sense of entrapment and that searching for freedom that runs through most of the stories. The author captures these feelings succinctly. I love how all of these pieces end on a kind of bittersweet note, hopeful. The emotions are never overdone.

[Susi · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading and thoroughly enjoying "Ex-Boyfriend on Aisle 6" I felt compelled to read this collection by the same author. I'm glad I did! Rodgers is a terrific short story writer and the stories lingered in my mind even after I put the book down. I'm looking forward to reading whatever she comes up with next!

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This collection of stories, was excellent, it left me wanting more. Some of the stories could have been plucked right from my own life, right down to the thoughts running through each characters head. I look forward to reading more of her writing.

[Keri Ault · Rating 5 out of 5]

My only regret in regards to reading this book was that I should have savored every short story slowly rather than gobbling it all up in two days. I love this author!