Trash: Stories

by Dorothy Allison
Trash: Stories cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Thriller/Suspense
Technical:
  • ID: 1871
  • Added: 2025-10-10
  • Updated: 2025-10-10
  • ISBN: 9780006547600
  • Published: 1995-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Trash is a gripping tale set in the grimy, chaotic world of a vast garbage dump where three boys, Raphael, Gardo, and Rat, make their living sifting through the refuse. Their lives take a dramatic turn when they discover a mysterious bag containing clues that could implicate a powerful politician in the disappearance of a wealthy boy. As they navigate the treacherous landscape of their environment and the corrupt authorities hunting them, the boys must rely on their wit and courage to uncover the truth. The novel explores themes of poverty, corruption, and the resilience of the human spirit, offering a poignant and suspenseful narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With its vivid descriptions and compelling characters, Trash is a powerful story that sheds light on the harsh realities faced by those living on the margins of society.

Reviews
Hardcover.app · Arielle · 2025-10-10
haunting 4.00

The stories are intense and impactful, though repetitive at times.

Arielle finds the stories gritty and shocking, yet fantastic. While the themes are intense, some stories feel repetitive, focusing on similar themes of struggle and resilience. Overall, the book leaves a strong emotional impact.

Quick quotes

    These stories are gritty, shocking, and depressing, but hell, are they fantastic.

    Occasionally they get repetitive, since they're all centered around the ...

Richard Jespers' Blog · Richard Jespers · 2025-10-10
powerful 4.50

The reviewer finds the book powerful and unflinching, highlighting its raw emotion.

Richard Jespers describes the book as powerful, with raw emotion that grabs attention. The stories are unflinching, making readers confront tough realities head-on. The quote reflects themes of self-worth and struggle, showcasing Allison's bold storytelling.

Quick quotes

    Allison swings for the rafters with this one: "Poor white trash I am sure. I eat shit food and am not worthy. My family starts with good teeth but loses them ..."

Goodreads · 1988-09-01
glowing 4.50

The book is praised for its candor and emotional impact, likely to attract both existing fans and new readers.

This powerful book resonates with uncompromising candor and incandescence, captivating Allison's loyal readers and winning her new followers. It's a testament to her ability to craft stories that deeply affect her audience.

Quick quotes

    A book that resonates with uncompromising candor and incandescence, Trash is sure to captivate Allison's legion of readers and win her a devoted new following.

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