Patrick Barb

When I read the premise of this little book, it seemed so off-kilter that I thought the book itself would be funny, weird, and more strange than horrific. I wasn’t remotely prepared for the heartfelt and haunting story Barb creates here, but I devoured it in one sitting and found myself crying over the pages.

With such careful awareness of varied points of view that his work here is utterly genius, Barb manages to tell a story which cannot be denied its power. Moments which would be comical show more in another writer’s hands become dangerously tender while remaining true to the tale and the voices at the heart of the story. And just as he brings the subway and the contemporary world into violent existence on the pages, so too do moments of levity and connection between characters make this story all the more real. It shouldn’t seem real—it shouldn’t feel real—and yet, it is so carefully delivered that it gains a heft and reality which I wouldn’t have believed possible in such a short, strange work that haunts me still.

I loved this little book, and I can’t wait to read more from Patrick Barb. show less

An exciting ride through Brooklyn with the ghost of a giant ape as well as a touching meditation on aging, loss, and letting go. I enjoyed reading this and couldn't put it down until it was finished!