Sumiko Saulson

I am pleased to say that Sumiko Saulson is def. on my read more of her work list. I have to say that the collection of stories in this book is not what I thought. In fact the first story, A LIFE OF HER OWN is absolutely heart wrenchingly sad. I did not expect that story to be in this book based on the synopsis let alone be the first story to open the collection. It was haunting as it was sad, and it stuck with me. Much of the stories in this book I feel are a great introduction to this authors style. AGRIPPA is a great human vs. technology story. It has a very Harlan Ellison feel to it which I love. Saulson taps into the very paranoia’s of the human minds and weaves a deep, thought provoking, often poignant delivery. COMPANY is a wonderful example of how in one story, the main character goes through being complacent as the owner and basic proprietor of the town, then realizing how badly she doesn’t want to be the one responsible for the dead end town (literally) and knowing she wants to do more with her life. She finds hope and then her dreams of leaving are promptly shattered as quickly as they were developed. It’s this ability to show the human race’s desperation for more, be it for one’s self, for the growth of technology or just the desperation of trying to stay sane that makes these stories stick with you. ATTEMPTED HAPPINESS is a disturbing yet at times comical unconventional story of revenge and the battle to maintain one’s sanity. I loved this story quite a bit. Saulson also includes some of her poems in this book which I found to be rather funny. WHAT’S UP ON VICKSBURG and ZOMBIE HAIKU gave me a laugh, and her poem KILLER ROMANCE is the perfect example of how I always say that the grass isn’t greener on the other side, you just have to spend some time tending to your OWN yard.

All in all, I very much enjoy this woman’s work. I love what her stories stand for and I love the voice in which she tells them. Very happy to have received this book.