Valparaiso, Round the Horn: A Collection of Stories — Madeline Ffitch

Read just a few paragraphs and you'll see: not much preamble is required for Madeline ffitch's debut collection. The short stories within speak for themselves, loudly, clearly. Here you'll find a passionate scientist studying a forgotten species of Mud Turtle, a janitor who brings up his daughter in the basement of her middle school, a construction worker who minds where he pees, and a whole lot more. Throughout, you'll be astonished and engaged by their colloquial fluency, honest characters, and intriguing rural backdrops.