whites book

whites book by norman rush

dive into the captivating world of "whites," a masterful collection of short stories by the acclaimed author norman rush. this insightful book offers a unique glimpse into the lives of euro-american expatriates navigating the complex social and cultural landscapes of botswana in the 1980s. readers frequently seek out compelling literary fiction and thought-provoking short story collections, and "whites" certainly delivers. many aspiring readers look for accessible versions of such significant literary works, often searching for terms like "whites book," "norman rush ," or "read whites online." exploring this book promises a rich and engaging reading experience, making it a valuable addition to any digital or physical library.

1. full book name : whites
2. author name : norman rush
3. genre : short stories, literary fiction
4. page count : approximately 160 pages
5. isbn : 978-0679738169
6. edition language : english
7. date of publication : 1986 (original hardcover), september 1, 1992 (vintage paperback)

whites summary

"whites" by norman rush is an acclaimed collection of short stories that immerses the reader in the lives of various american and european expatriates living in botswana during the 1980s. each story in this powerful book explores the often-unsettled and sometimes absurd experiences of these "whites" who find themselves detached from their home cultures and navigating unfamiliar african customs. the characters grapple with their identities, relationships, and the moral ambiguities of their presence in a developing nation. from a man driven to explore local witchcraft due to incessant dog barking to a woman who professionally cultivates seduction, the narratives are both darkly humorous and deeply insightful, revealing the often-peculiar behaviors that emerge from their unique circumstances. rush masterfully crafts scenarios where uncertainty and cultural clashes lead to profound personal revelations and often, unexpected consequences. the collection was recognized for its literary merit, becoming a finalist for the pulitzer prize for fiction in 1987, a testament to its compelling narrative and insightful character studies. these stories offer a brilliant exploration of human nature under the lens of cultural displacement, making it a highly regarded work of literary fiction.

about the author norman rush

norman rush, born on october 24, 1933, in san francisco and raised in oakland, california, is a distinguished american writer renowned for his introspective novels and short stories. his literary career took a significant turn when he and his wife, elsa, served as co-directors for the peace corps in botswana from 1978 to 1983. this profound five-year experience in africa provided much of the rich material and authentic settings for his most celebrated works, including "whites" and his national book award-winning novel, "mating". "whites," published in 1986, marked his debut as a book author at the age of 53, showcasing his unique voice and keen observation of human behavior within expatriate communities. rushs writing is characterized by its intellectual depth, psychological acuity, and a distinctive narrative style that captures the complexities of his characters and their environments. his contributions have cemented his reputation as a significant voice in contemporary american literature, particularly for his nuanced portrayals of characters in international settings.

whites faq

1. what is the book "whites" by norman rush about?

   "whites" is a collection of short stories by norman rush that explores the lives and experiences of various american and european expatriates living in botswana during the 1980s. the narratives delve into the psychological and social intricacies of these individuals, often highlighting their struggles with cultural identity, purpose, and the unique challenges of their environment. the book is known for its satirical yet deeply human portrayal of people adapting, or failing to adapt, to life in a foreign land.

2. who is the author of "whites"?

   the author of the critically acclaimed short story collection "whites" is norman rush. he is an american writer celebrated for his insightful and often satirical works, many of which are set in botswana where he lived and worked with his wife as peace corps co-directors. his unique experiences abroad heavily influenced his distinctive literary voice.

3. what genre does "whites" belong to?

   "whites" falls primarily under the genre of short stories and literary fiction. it is also often categorized within anthologies and contemporary fiction, reflecting its format as a collection of narratives and its focus on modern themes and character studies. the book is lauded for its sophisticated prose and exploration of complex human conditions.

4. where is "whites" by norman rush set?

   the setting for all the stories in "whites" by norman rush is botswana, an african nation, during the 1980s. rushs personal experience as a peace corps co-director in botswana heavily informed the authentic and vivid backdrop for his characters lives and predicaments within the collection. the setting is integral to the themes of cultural clash and expatriate life explored in the book.

5. what recognition did "whites" receive?

   "whites" by norman rush received significant critical acclaim and was a finalist for the prestigious pulitzer prize for fiction in 1987. this recognition underscores its literary importance and its impact on readers and critics alike. the book is considered a powerful and original work, noted for its authenticity and sharp ironies.