Little White Slips

Book excerpt: An outstanding collection of short fiction from a bold new voice in contemporary literature. The 13 stories in Karen Hitchcock's debut collection Little White Slips showcase a formidable new talent. One of the most exciting recruits to the Australian Picador list in years, Karen's writing is deeply personal, strikingly feminine, heart-breakingly beautiful, at times fearless and confronting, and frequently hilarious. Whether tackling a troubled marriage using an action figure of Sigmund Freud, celebrating the apparent triumph of weight loss, or coping with the stresses of balancing a career with motherhood, the joys and frustrations of our lives are laid bare. Hitchcock's often painfully honest observations are balanced by a wry humour and sharp wit. And with stories encompassing growing up, love, betrayal, sex, marriage, self-image, and our relationships with family, friends and food, there are few women (and the odd man) who will not recognise themselves in these tales. 'Darkly funny and original.' The Sunday Telegraph 'Compulsively readable ... Hitchcock has such a distinctive voice and sensibility, clever without being obnoxious, warm, and earthy ... she is quite a find.' The Australian 'Short stories are making a comeback -- and thank goodness; otherwise readers might have been denied the challenge and pleasure of Little White Slips.' The Sydney Morning Herald