Minimum of Two: Stories

Winton, Tim

ISBN 10: 068911978X / ISBN 13: 9780689119781

Published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers, New York, New York, U.S.A., 1988

About this Item

FIRST AMERICAN EDITION AND PRINTING. Internationally acclaimed, immensely gifted, Miles Franklin Award (Australia's most prestigious literary prize)-winning author's fourth book. "Many of the stories that comprise 'Minimum of Two' are encounters with one family-Rachel, Jerra, and their baby, Sam-at pivotal moments in their lives. There is "Blood and Water," the story of Sam's momentous birth, and "Forest Winter," about hardships endured during a season of living off the land. There are also the more prosperous years of "Gravity," years that are nevertheless singed by memories of a parent's death, and "More," where we witness how obsession and a trivial infidelity can threaten a marriage. It is a testament to Tim Winton's virtuosity that 'Minimum of Two' can also contain stories as diverse as "No Memory Comes," about a young boy's efforts to bring back a simpler past, the time before his parents split up, and "Minimum of Two," the stark and violent title story, where a husband confronts his wife's convicted rapist. Finally, there is the hope and rejuvenation in nature that marks "Laps," the coda to Tim Winton's remarkable 'Shallows'." 14 short stories. 153 pages. Thin, light yellowing strips to DJ interior flaps. elsewise a fine copy in a mylar protective cover! LF.

Seller Inventory # 003610

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Minimum of Two: Stories
• Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers, New York, New York, U.S.A.
• Publication Date: 1988
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 068911978X
• ISBN 13: 9780689119781
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition: First Edition
• Condition: Fine
• Dust Jacket Condition: Near Fine

About this title

Synopsis

A collection of short stories explores the themes of friendship, early marriage, and family relationships

Reviews

Beginning with his first novel, published when he was 21, the Australian author's works have all earned prizes; so too has this memorable collection of 14 stories, which won the Miles Franklin Award. The most intimate and sensitive of the tales center on incidents affecting a young family: Jerra and Rachel Nilsam and their baby Sam. Working their way through crises that imperil their marriage, the prickly couple makes its survival extremely important to the reader. The relationship is particularly at risk in "Gravity," when Jerra takes the little boy on an outing and they return late for a big party where dear friends are gathered. Rachel is cool in her anger; the guests transparently hide their hurt and Jerra can't force himself to "smooth things over." His thoughts are on his father, recently dead, and he realizes the impossibility of explaining the loss. Jerra's loneliness and questions about life end in an ineffably sweet moment that proves love endures and needs no explanation. All the selections are strong and beautifully written, but those about the Nilsams stay longest in one's memory.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.