'Are You Happy?' Is a Darkly Immersive Journey Into Small-Town America
Briefly

Lori Ostlund's upcoming collection, 'Are You Happy?', weaves through nine stories exploring grief, the LGBTQ+ experience, and women's societal navigation in a violent American culture. The title story, 'The Stalker', focuses on gendered threats faced by women, while 'Clear as Cake' depicts a male teacher's struggles with his students. The collection emphasizes the lasting impact of formative years on personal growth, as seen in the stories 'The Bus Driver' and 'Just Another Family'. Ostlund draws from her life experiences, making her narratives immersive and relatable. Her book will be available on May 6, 2025.
In 'Are You Happy?', Lori Ostlund interweaves themes of grief, gender dynamics, and the impact of formative years, offering profound insights into personal and societal struggles.
Ostlund explores the complexities of women's experiences in the world, particularly the nuances of navigating threats of violence and societal norms that challenge their safety.
Read at Kqed
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