Close Encounters

Here are maps of the distances between us and within us. With humor, anger and deep emotion, Jen Michalski's first collection of stories is a window on the daily struggle for connection that links and separates us all. (2nd printing; paperback edition). “Michalski reveals to the reader the sparkly gems of the seediest of worlds. Michalski is best when she creates realities that blur with fantasies, which she accomplishes in the majority of the pieces. These stories cut a reader to the bone and are deeply compelling.”—Pedestal Magazine “….these quick-paced, adorable stories could go on forever. You want them to go on forever because of their incredible intrigue.”—Ryn Gargulinski, The Potomac “Michalski has a natural talent for creating believable, fully-fleshed characters a reader can empathize with. The author has a subtle touch and trusts her characters to tell their own story.”—13th Warrior Review “…the prose inside is solid, the imaginative tales read well.”—Sara Crowley, The Short Review “Jen Michalski’s debut collection is full of quirky stories, damaged characters, surprising humor, and tender prose.”—Michael Kimball, author of Dear Everybody “Jen Michalski’s stories remind me of internal, haunting, whispers. There is a calm, meditative exterior that houses a world of vivid drama, intrigue, great beauty and wonder, a joy to read!”—Jessica Anya Blau, author of The Summer of Naked Swim Parties