Sunday, March 8, 2015

"A Gate at the Stairs" Review by Stephanie Passialis

Title: A Gate at the Stairs
Author: Lorrie Moore
Rating: 4/5 Stars


I was first introduced to this fascinating read by one of my English professors for a course on theory. The novel, written by Lorrie Moore, follows the life of her narrator Tassie Keltjin, a twenty-year-old college student who pursues a baby-sitting job for an odd, white couple who adopts a biracial baby at the wake of 9/11 (and, clearly, problems ensue). Simultaneously troublesome and riveting in its tale, the story provides extraordinary commentary on race, politics, sexuality, love and war in the midst of the American tragedy. Perhaps more captivating is Lorrie Moore’s astounding writing abilities. As a stylist, she utilizes each and every word of her prose to some end-game, and it shows. Every line reads like poetry, forcing the reader to slow down and grasp the meaning and lyricism of her words. Provocative and telling, A Gate at the Stairs is certainly a must-read for any writer hoping to improve his or her own style in writing.

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