Kelley's novel, Solitaire, has just been reissued by Small Beer Press. The cover is gorgeous. In fact, the whole package is supremely delicious. For those who can't read the small type, on the cover it says:
New York Times Notable Book
Borders Original Voices Selection
Nebula, Endeavor, and Spectrum Award finalist
"A stylistic and psychological tour de force."
-- New York Times Book Review
Great credentials. But you know what? It's even better than that. It's a coming of age story. It's a moving examination of solitude and community. It's a brilliant and subtle explication of management process. It's a stunning speculative take on virtual imprisonment. Oh, and there's good sex and creepy sex, and beer (lots of beer), and shit blows up!
Trust me, the central section of the book, its fulcrum, truly is a big idea, a tour de force. The NYTBR is not blowing smoke. Not coincidentally, Kelley has a Big Idea guest post up on Whatever. She talks about what the book is really about for her. She talks about the difference between 'alone' and 'lonely'. She talks about what a challenge it is to write dialogue when there's only one character--as she says, you can't even write "As you know, Bob" dialogue if there's no Bob. Go learn something.
And take a look at this fabulous, detailed review up at Eve's Alexandria. It will tell you everything you need to know about this fine book.
I am thrilled to see Solitaire poised to find a new audience. Available now, in print, from Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, your local independent bookstore, and direct from Small Beer Press. Also available in Kindle and DRM-free e-book editions. Enjoy.
