Josh Russell Book order

Exploring themes of mortality, transformation, and the complexities of American life, this collection features diverse stories that surprise and entertain. From a family seeking refuge in an IKEA after a disaster to a man's life-altering memory of his sister, each vignette offers a unique perspective. Russell's writing blends the extraordinary with the mundane, showcasing his mastery of short-form fiction. The narratives are tender, humorous, and beautifully crafted, inviting readers to reconsider the boundaries between different aspects of life.

Walter Schmidt navigates a complex life shaped by personal and external turmoil. His wife Nadine's peculiar desire to live near her late husband's mother adds strain, while the looming threat of the rising Mississippi River and the aftermath of FDR's death cast a shadow over his world. Despite these challenges, Walter finds stability until a shocking betrayal shatters his reality when he discovers Nadine with his best friend Sammy. Set against the backdrop of post-war uncertainty, the story explores themes of loyalty, love, and the fragility of happiness.