Lying Under the Apple Tree

by Alice Munro
Lying Under the Apple Tree cover
Good Books rating 4.58
Short Story Collections
Technical
  • ID: 3100
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781473513747
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2014-05-08
  • Reviews: 3

Alice Munro, hailed as one of the most fearless explorers of the human condition, presents a collection of her finest works from the past fifteen years. Her stories are beautifully observed and remarkably crafted, infusing ordinary lives with a wealth of nuance and emotion. Munro's ability to capture the essence of human experiences with precision and empathy makes this collection a masterclass in the genre. Each story is a testament to her skill as a writer, offering readers a deep and resonant understanding of the complexities of life. /n/n Spanning her last five collections, this selection showcases Munro's unparalleled talent for storytelling. Her narratives are not just tales but profound explorations of the human psyche, making her one of the major fiction writers of our time. Whether delving into the intricacies of relationships or the quiet moments of personal reflection, Munro's stories are nothing short of perfection.

Reviews
The Times · 2025-10-16
remarkable 4.50

Munro's stories are praised for their ability to capture the essence of a whole life in a short format. The reviewer finds the collection to be a remarkable achievement.

The reviewer from The Times highlights Alice Munro's unique ability to distill the essence of a whole life into a short story. This collection is seen as a remarkable achievement, showcasing Munro's skill in capturing the complexities of human experiences. The reviewer appreciates the depth and insight that Munro brings to her narratives, making each story a profound and engaging read. The collection is celebrated for its emotional resonance and the masterful way Munro weaves together intricate plots and characters.

Quick quotes

    If a good short story is the concentrated essence of a whole novel, some of Munro's stories go one better and give the essence of a whole life.

    Munro's skill in capturing the complexities of human experiences is unparalleled.

    This collection is a testament to Munro's mastery of the short story form.

The Guardian · Clare Wigfall · 2014-06-15
masterful 4.50

Alice Munro's mastery of storytelling shines through in this collection of 15 stories. The reviewer admires her skillful craftsmanship and the emotional depth of her narratives.

Alice Munro's collection of short stories is a testament to her exceptional talent as a writer. The reviewer, Clare Wigfall, highlights Munro's ability to craft compelling narratives that delve deeply into the human experience. Each story is meticulously constructed, showcasing Munro's keen observation of everyday life and her ability to evoke a range of emotions. Wigfall praises Munro's skill in creating complex characters and intricate plots that resonate with readers.

Quick quotes

    Alice Munro demonstrates mastery of her craft in 15 stories culled from five recent collections.

    These stories are nothing short of perfection.

    A masterclass in the genre.

The Literary Sisters · 2014-05-20
stunning 4.75

The reviewer is captivated by the realistic characters and stunning turns of phrase in Munro's stories. Each tale is beautifully constructed, leaving a lasting impression.

The reviewer from The Literary Sisters is deeply impressed by Alice Munro's ability to create realistic characters and evocative descriptions. Each story in the collection is meticulously crafted, with every word contributing to the overall impact. The reviewer particularly appreciates Munro's use of language, which adds depth and nuance to the narratives. The collection leaves a lasting impression, showcasing Munro's talent for capturing the essence of human experiences.

Quick quotes

    Her characters throughout are so very realistic, and her turns of phrase are stunning.

    Each story is marvellously built, and not a single word is out of place.

    This collection is a testament to Munro's skill as a storyteller.

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