Stories in an Almost Classical Mode

FROM TWO-TIME O. HENRY AWARD WINNER • A mammoth collection of short fiction, these 17 stories spanning three decades of work showcase Harold Brodkey at his most intense and masterful. With layered insights, emotional risk, and magnificently dense prose, Brodkey captures the truth and complexity of lived experience.

"[Brodkey's stories are] one of those provinces we visit while traveling and that travel with us ever since...Brodkey has followed his vision of growth and corruption...to depths only he has charted." —Los Angeles Times Book Review

“Forceful and lucid…” —The New York Times

My protagonists are my mother's voice and the mind I had when I was thirteen. I was supposed to have a good mind—that supposition was a somewhat mysterious and even unlikely thing.

Written with striking intensity and seriousness, these stories explore memory, identity, and the subtle ironies of human relationships. Brodkey’s language is rich and layered, revealing the complexity of a single moment with uncommon depth and precision. With this collection, readers are invited into a world of emotional risk and psychological nuance. For longtime admirers and new literary explorers alike, this volume offers the rare pleasure of encountering a master at the height of his powers.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs