In our afternoon reading: thoughts on books by Paul B. Preciado and Ocean Vuong, an interview with Brad Listi, and more.
“Waves”: An Excerpt From Josh Denslow’s “Magic Can’t Save Us”
We’re pleased to present an excerpt from Josh Denslow’s new short story collection Magic Can’t Save Us, available now from University of New Orleans Press. Acclaimed author Sequoia Nagamatsu had this to say about the book: “With the fabulist hand of Aimee Bender and Karen Russell and the humor and irreverence of Steve Almond, Denslow masterfully juggles crumbling relationships and beings of myth in a whirlwind of awkward silences, deceit, and failure to love.” Read on for a glimpse of what’s inside this new collection.
Morning Bites: Jeanne Thornton Interviewed, Sumac and Moor Mother’s Collaboration, Soft Boys Revisited, and More
In our morning reading: an interview with Jeanne Thornton, notable 21st century short stories, and more.
Recommended Books: May 2025
Q. Are we excited about new books due out in May?
A. Yes.
Q. Why are we excited about new books due out in May?
A. Because they look excellent.
Morning Bites: Tracy O’Neill on Memoirs, Brian Allen Carr Interviewed, Jess Row Nonfiction, and More
In our morning reading: an interview with Tracy O’Neill, Aaron Turner recommends music, and more.
Afternoon Bites: Marcus Pactor’s Collection, Velvet Underground Live, Donald Edem Quist’s Playlist, and More
In our afternoon reading: thoughts on Marcus Pactor’s short stories, revisiting the Velvet Underground live, and more.
Sunday Stories: “Classified”
Classified
by Josh Denslow
Haley and I had been broken up for two weeks when she asked if I’d drive up north to have dinner with her parents.
“They are looking forward to meeting you,” she said over the phone, and I could picture the wince that happened when she felt uncomfortable. The twitch of her cheek.
Morning Bites: Patti Smith, Mary Ruefle’s Latest, Josh Denslow, Nick Flynn Interviewed, and More
In our morning reading: interviews with Patti Smith and Josh Denslow, thoughts on Mary Ruefle’s new book, and more.