Problems with People: Stories - Tapa dura

Guterson writes beautiful, persuasive prose, harking back to Hemingway, with a glimmer of wit that brings a modern sensibility (Daily Telegraph)

Guterson has made a highly significant contribution to American literature (Guardian)

Guterson's books keep getting better (New York Times)

This collection's wry charm is to show that real communication is still possible, quite often unexpected and, when it happens, redemptive . Refreshingly untricksy in style, every story winded me with its precise and unsentimental observation of human isolation, sometimes transcended by the kindness of strangers, more often beyond reach . Timeless and moving, these are smart stories indeed (Country Life)

Guterson is a master of mood and character, nailing with impressive depth, in just a few pages, psychological landscapes, personal histories and their wider contexts. These powerful, accomplished stories, where no word is wasted, have a shimmering quality and are compelling to read **** (Lady)

There is much to admire (The Times)

Guterson's stories are like Raymond Carver's relocated to the north-west . Packs a considerable emotional punch . Powerful and deeply moving (Jewish Chronicle)

What's striking about David Guterson's excellent new collection of short stories is the consistent brilliance of the set-ups . Each of the ten stories fascinates in a different way, and the main problem is trying to resist devouring these crisply written morsels in one delirious binge (Daily Mail)