Runaway

Back of the Book

This acclaimed, bestselling collection also contains the celebrated stories that inspired the Pedro Almodóvar film “Julieta.” Runaway is a book of extraordinary stories about love and its infinite betrayals and surprises, from the title story about a young woman who, though she thinks she wants to, is incapable of leaving her husband, to three stories about a woman named Juliet and the emotions that complicate the luster of her intimate relationships. In Munro’s hands, the people she writes about–women of all ages and circumstances, and their friends, lovers, parents, and children–become as vivid as our own neighbors. It is her miraculous gift to make these stories as real and unforgettable as our own.

Why You Should Read It

Runaway is a masterclass in the art of the short story, showcasing Munro's unparalleled ability to illuminate the complexities of human relationships. With precision and grace, Munro captures the subtleties of everyday life, infusing her characters with authenticity and depth. Each story is a finely crafted exploration of the human condition, with themes ranging from love and betrayal to self-discovery. Munro's narrative prowess lies in her keen observations and the quiet power with which she unravels the intricacies of her characters' lives. Runaway is not merely a collection of short stories; it is a testament to Munro's literary prowess, offering readers a glimpse into the profound truths that can be found within the ordinary. For those who appreciate the beauty of language and the nuance of human experience, "Runaway" is a compelling and enriching read that leaves a lasting impact.

Memorable Passage

As a matter of fact she does not know to this day if those words were spoken, or if he only caught her, wound his arms around her, held her so tightly, with such continual, changing pressures that it seemed more than two arms were needed, that she was surrounded by him, his body strong and light, demanding and renouncing all at once, as if he was telling her she was wrong to give up on him, everything was possible, but then again that she was not wrong, he meant to stamp himself on her and go.

About the Author

Alice Munro, born on July 10, 1931, in Wingham, Ontario, Canada, is an exceptional Canadian short story writer renowned for her unparalleled storytelling acumen. Her body of work, spanning several decades, has garnered numerous awards, including the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2013. Munro's literary genius lies in her ability to craft intricate narratives that delve into the complexities of human relationships, often set against the backdrop of small-town life. Her stories are marked by a keen understanding of human psychology and a profound empathy for her characters. Munro's exploration of the ordinary and the extraordinary, coupled with her meticulous prose, elevates her to the pinnacle of short story craftsmanship. With each collection, including the acclaimed Runaway, Munro invites readers into worlds rich with nuance, emotion, and the timeless truths that define the human experience. For those seeking profound insights into the intricacies of life through the lens of exceptional storytelling, Alice Munro is an author whose work is undeniably worth knowing.

Recommended By

Aimee Bender