Five-Carat Soul

by James McBride
Five-Carat Soul cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Short Story Collections
Technical
  • ID: 3745
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-20
  • ISBN: 9781399632492
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2025-08-07
  • Reviews: 3

James McBride's 'Five-Carat Soul' is a captivating collection of short stories that delve into the intricate tapestry of human experiences. Each story is a gem, reflecting the author's unique perspective on identity, history, and the human condition. From an antiques dealer uncovering a historical artifact to a group of strangers facing unexpected judgment, these narratives are both perceptive and moving. The stories are set against a backdrop of rich cultural and historical contexts, offering a profound exploration of what it means to be human. The collection also includes tales from the Five-Carat Soul Bottom Bone Band, whose members share stories from their messy and hilarious lives. McBride's writing is praised for its bravery and joy, making this a must-read for those who appreciate thought-provoking and emotionally resonant literature.

Reviews
Book Reporter · 2018-09-25
enlightening 4.20

The stories are set in worlds that are foreign to the reviewer's experience, offering a unique and enlightening perspective. The collection is praised for its cultural richness and historical depth.

The reviewer at Book Reporter highlights that the worlds depicted in 'Five-Carat Soul' are completely foreign to their own experience, which adds a layer of intrigue and enlightenment to the reading experience. They appreciate the cultural richness and historical depth that McBride brings to each story, making the collection a compelling and thought-provoking read. The reviewer notes that the stories offer a unique perspective that broadens the reader's understanding of different cultures and histories. The collection is seen as a valuable exploration of diverse experiences and a testament to McBride's storytelling prowess.

Quick quotes

    The worlds from which McBride crafted FIVE-CARAT SOUL are places completely foreign to my experience; they have a history, culture and

    Each story is a journey into a different world, offering a unique perspective and a rich tapestry of experiences.

    The collection is a valuable exploration of diverse experiences and a testament to McBride's storytelling prowess.

The New York Times · 2017-10-23
delightful 4.50

The collection is praised for its sharp dialogue and unexpected plot twists, making it a delightful read. The reviewer highlights the humor and the breadth of stories that cover a wide range of experiences.

The reviewer at The New York Times describes 'Five-Carat Soul' as a pinball machine zinging with sharp dialogue, breathtaking plot twists, and naughty humor. They appreciate the variety of stories that McBride presents, each offering a unique perspective and a rich tapestry of experiences. The humor and wit are particularly noteworthy, making the collection a delightful and engaging read. The reviewer also points out that McBride's ability to weave together different narratives creates a cohesive and captivating experience for the reader.

Quick quotes

    The result is a pinball machine zinging with sharp dialogue, breathtaking plot twists and naughty humor.

    This makes 'Five-Carat Soul' a delight.

    McBride's ability to weave together different narratives creates a cohesive and captivating experience for the reader.

Goodreads · 2017-09-26
charming 4.00

The stories are charming and highly recommended, offering a rich reading experience. The reviewer finds the collection well worth the time and effort.

The reviewer on Goodreads finds 'Five-Carat Soul' to be a charming collection of stories that are highly recommended. They appreciate the depth and variety of the narratives, which offer a rich and engaging reading experience. The reviewer notes that while they are keeping the review short, the stories are well worth any reader's time and effort. The collection is seen as a valuable addition to McBride's body of work, showcasing his ability to craft compelling and thought-provoking tales.

Quick quotes

    All the rest of these stories are charming and come highly recommended.

    I'll be keeping this review short, but I think it's well worth any reader's time to read

    I'll be keeping this review short, but I think it's well worth any reader's time to read

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