The Little Disturbances of Man
The Little Disturbances of Man
Book Brief
Beta192
Short Story • Fiction
New York City • 1950s
1985
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Little Disturbances of Man by Grace Paley is a collection of short stories delving into the lives of individuals navigating complex personal experiences. Through tales like "Goodbye and Good Luck" and "The Used-Boy Raisers," the author explores themes of love, identity, and human connection in mid-20th century urban settings.
Gritty
Emotional
Bittersweet
Humorous
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
2,098 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Grace Paley's The Little Disturbances of Man is praised for its authentic dialogue and vivid characterizations, capturing the essence of urban life. Critics commend Paley's wit and the depth of her female characters. Some note the narrative's fragmented style may challenge readers seeking conventional plots. Overall, it is celebrated for its insightful exploration of human relationships.
Who Should Read The Little Disturbances of Man?
Readers who appreciate The Little Disturbances of Man by Grace Paley will enjoy character-driven short stories that explore urban life, Jewish identity, and female perspectives. Fans of Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri or Goodbye, Columbus by Philip Roth will find Paley's wit and insight appealing.
2,098 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Little Disturbances of Man by Grace Paley, first published in 1959, was Paley's debut collection of short stories and quickly gained critical acclaim for its innovative and empathetic portrayal of everyday life.
Grace Paley's unique narrative voice and style in The Little Disturbances of Man have been praised for blending elements of Yiddish storytelling tradition with the rhythms of urban American speech.
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Despite it being her debut collection, Paley's work in The Little Disturbances of Man established her as a pioneering voice in American literature, particularly known for her focus on the lives of women and their experiences.
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192
Short Story • Fiction
New York City • 1950s
1985
Adult
18+ years
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