Waiting for the Evening News: Stories of the Deep South
Tales of Kindness and Life-Changing Decisions
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Hodder & Stoughton
Published:18th Mar '10
Should be back in stock very soon

This collection features 23 engaging stories that explore the lives of ordinary people in the Deep South, highlighting kindness and life-changing decisions. Waiting for the Evening News offers a poignant glimpse into their experiences.
In Waiting for the Evening News: Stories of the Deep South, Tim Gautreaux weaves together 23 captivating tales that delve into the complexities of human relationships and the unexpected moments that shape our lives. Each story presents ordinary individuals faced with extraordinary circumstances, exploring themes of kindness, decision-making, and the hidden depths of secret lives. From a petty thief outsmarted by a clever widow and her card-playing friends to a farmer navigating the challenges of raising his granddaughter, these narratives illustrate the intricate tapestry of Southern life.
The characters in Waiting for the Evening News are relatable and authentic, each grappling with their own dilemmas and aspirations. A train engineer's unintentional role in a disaster leads to a whirlwind of media attention, while a young man finds love in an unexpected connection with a voice on the radio. Meanwhile, a camera repairman stumbles upon a woman's family history through a roll of undeveloped film, revealing how the past can intertwine with the present in surprising ways.
Through humor and heart, Gautreaux captures the essence of everyday struggles and the hope for redemption and better days. The stories resonate with readers, highlighting the beauty and complexity of life in the Deep South, where small gestures can lead to significant change and where every decision carries weight. This collection is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of our choices.
This outstanding collection marks Tim Gautreaux as one of the best short story writers anywhere...it is magnificently enjoyable reading * Annie Proulx, Guardian *
Tim Gautreaux deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as William Faulkner and Tennessee Williams. Scintillating...unforgettable * Mail on Sunday *
'This man is a wonderful writer . . . I can honestly say I love to read his stories. He never exaggerates, never manipulates the reader's affections, but nonetheless he always captures the heart.' * James Lee Burke *
'Startling and redemptive . . . These stories suggest . . . that to be alive means being open to grief and accident, chance and wonder' * Chicago Tribune *
'Finely balanced, sweet, and gritty' * San Francisco Chronicle *
ISBN: 9780340834558
Dimensions: 198mm x 131mm x 25mm
Weight: 276g
400 pages