This was recommended to me by a friend, but I'm not sure if my apathy toward it is the result of the book itself, or just maybe that it wasn't my cup of tea. The first piece, The Corn Maiden, is the longest part and the story of a little girl held captive by teenagers as part of a disturbing sacrifice. What follows are some short stories in the vein of realistic horror - the trouble with befriending strangers, surgeries gone wrong, and other mishaps of human nature. They were easy reads and I went through the book fairly quickly, but not much ever really happened in the stories, so it's hard to have much of an impression. As you can tell from the title , this is a collection of horror short-stories. I only read the first three, then I had to return it to the library. Overall, the first story "The Corn Maiden" was good. The point of view was confusing at times. So I'd give 3/5. The next two stories are forgettable. I don't think I'd read the rest of the stories. Joyce Carol Oates is a very good writer, but she's not my cup of tea.
What do You think about Bambini E Altre Malattie (2009)?
One of her best compilations. Forgot how much she can pack into a short story.
—pricey1
The first (and title) story is terrific, the rest sort of suck.
—Anita
Seven superb & gripping stories and all with a hint of menace.
—madhu
