Grace Paley

Grace Paley was an American short story writer, poet, and activist known for her wit and keen observations of life. Her work often focused on the everyday lives of ordinary people, particularly women and families, and she was celebrated for her use of vernacular speech and her ability to capture the complexities of human relationships. Paley was also involved in various social causes, including the feminist, anti-war, and anti-nuclear movements.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Little Disturbances

    Cover of 'Little Disturbances' by Grace Paley

    "Little Disturbances" is a collection of short stories that explore the daily lives and struggles of women, primarily Jewish New Yorkers. The stories are centered around themes of love, loss, and the complexities of life, with a particular focus on the female experience. The author's distinctive voice and vivid characters provide a poignant and often humorous look at the human condition.

  2. 2. Enormous Changes at the Last Minute

    Cover of 'Enormous Changes at the Last Minute' by Grace Paley

    "Enormous Changes at the Last Minute" is a collection of 17 short stories that delve into the lives of various individuals living in New York City. The narratives explore themes of love, loss, and the complexities of life, often from the perspective of women. The stories are characterized by their distinctive voice, evocative imagery, and a keen sense of observation, providing an intimate look into the human condition.

  3. 3. Later The Same Day

    Cover of 'Later The Same Day' by Grace Paley

    The book is a collection of seventeen short stories that delve into the lives of New Yorkers, particularly those of the working class and immigrants, with a focus on the personal and political struggles they face. The stories are interwoven with themes of love, loss, and the everyday challenges of life, all told through the lens of the protagonist, a writer and activist who reflects on her own experiences and those of her friends and neighbors. The narrative is marked by its conversational style, rich character development, and the author's keen observations on the human condition, capturing the complexity of urban life with empathy and wit.

  4. 4. The Collected Stories

    Cover of 'The Collected Stories' by Grace Paley

    "The Collected Stories" is a compilation of short stories that delve into the lives of various characters, often women, living in New York City. The stories are filled with humor, sorrow, and the daily struggles and triumphs of ordinary people. The author's skillful use of language and dialogue brings these characters and their experiences to life, offering insightful commentary on social issues, relationships, and the human condition.