Ross’s work remains fresh and vibrant despite the passage of decades, a model of what patient observation, deep listening and stringent craft can achieve.
A few of this book's early reports seem dated, as if describing another world...But most of these smart, generous and closely observed pieces are simply delightful.
But what makes many of these stories good reading is not only the subject matter but the author’s personal involvement. Why did she decide to write this particular piece? How does she research it? How long did she spend on it? Ross tells all in this remarkable collection.
But while Ross is dedicated to reporting – to teasing out the truth of a character, a setting, or situation – also on full display here are the stunning, if quieter, literary and storytelling techniques that inform her work.
