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Book Review of A Gate at the Stairs

A Gate at the Stairs
A Gate at the Stairs
Author: Lorrie Moore
Genre: Literature & Fiction
Book Type: Paperback
caffeinegirl avatar reviewed on + 114 more book reviews


There was so much I didn't like about this book. First, I couldn't decide if the characters' shtick was supposed to be actually funny, or just a sad attempt to paper over really serious situations with terrible comedic references and puns. Second, I couldn't decide if the conversations about race were supposed to be actually funny, or making a point about how every time white people gather to figure out how to help another group, they just end up arguing about white people. Third, I couldn't decide if Tassie's way of dealing with her brother's death was supposed to be funny, or just a nervous breakdown. You get the idea. Not recommended, which is something I never thought I would say about this author, whom I have loved in the past.