The Scattering

The Scattering, written by prizewinning writer Jaki McCarrik, is built up of a collection of nineteen short stories, of which several have previously won awards.

The nineteen stories, set mostly on the Irish border, all carry this sense of a dark resonance. Some explore themes of catastrophe, death and despair, while others talk of love and longing, with them all being highly complimented by McCarrkis spare but emotive writing skills.

In the opening story, 'By the Black Field', we read about Angel and his expectant wife Jess. We learn of what is important in life and how quickly those that we know can pass. And again in 'The Scattering' we are really made to think about life itself, how we live it and how quick, again it can pass. And although some of these stiories do deal with rather gloomy thoughts of life, they are all written in such a way that the stories told are interesting to read and really do make you think.

This collection of short stories is definitely an interesting read with some of the questional topics not always being fully answered. And with many of the stories covering such dark subjects I truly found it a hard book to put down.