In "Dating Silky Maxwell", author TJ Butler brings to life a chorus of passionate, damaged characters who leave their pasts behind and reinvent themselves until their mistakes no longer define them. In "Dating Silky Maxwell", a facial scar alters a former sex worker's identity. A social media influencer leads a double life, and a mysterious, fortune-telling stranger makes promises for a price. A jilted bartender leaves her seaside inheritance in flames. A woman kills an unnerving stranger while defending her dog. Left at the altar, an office worker finds her roots at a truck stop. A woman on a deserted farm calls on nature to defeat a would-be rapist, and a lonely heart's new boyfriend may have questionable motives. From a rundown coal country dog track to a glittering Washington, DC high-rise, Butler brings to life a chorus of passionate, damaged characters who leave their pasts behind and reinvent themselves until their mistakes no longer define them.
We will be discussing the following two stories: "A Flame on the Ocean" and "Bunny Man Bridge." These stories can be found in her collection, "Dating Silky Maxwell." You can find more info on her web site: www.tjbutlerauthor.com
The World Short Story Discussion Group meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7 PM to discuss two carefully chosen short stories. We are currently using the book, "The Best American Short Stories, 2021, edited by Jesmyn Ward," to select contemporary stories for monthly discussions.
This program will take place by Zoom and registration is required. After registering, you will be emailed the link to join this Zoom meeting. If you have questions about the program or need help finding these stories, contact Caroline at cpak@alexlibraryva.org.
