YOU THINK IT, I'LL SAY IT

by Curtis Sittenfeld
 
For me to pick up a book of short stories to read -- when it hasn’t been selected by one or another of my book clubs -- is unusual, to say the least.  I must have received some sort of silent signal that this collection was going to knock my socks off.  Curtis Sittenfeld wrote the books Prep andEligible, both great reads.  I share with you now that she also writes great short stories.
 
I’ve spent some time mulling over what made me like her stories so much.  They’re all set in the present time.  They all have to do with relationships – mostly couples, but also platonic friendships.  Her characters are very realistic and believable.  Just when you think someone is really “good” or a “nice person,” Sittenfeld reveals some major character flaw making the story interesting and compelling you to read on.
 
Sittenfeld writes stories about long-term relationships that end abruptly and the behaviors that can result during the grieving.  She writes about how familiarity in a relationship can breed contempt at the same time that it creates strong bonds of love.  This collection contains stories that will take you to unexpected places. 
 
I really recommend You Think It, I’ll Say It.  It will hold your attention from beginning to end. (Liz)