Introduction

The stories in Klim's new collection include tales of controlling women and ne'er-do-well men trying, well, to do well if they could; an upscale chef helping to prepare a condemned man's last meal; best friends who find themselves in a middle eastern battlefield; a rocket scientist on the drink who gets lucky; a heartbreaking and haunting tale of a neglected boy and what he learns from his runaway dog; and an abused girl who views a kaleidoscope of past lives. Told with the light, deft touch and well tuned dialogue that Klim's readers will be familiar with from his novels-a variety of characters and situations for every taste. -Thomas E. Kennedy, author of In the Company of Angels

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Excerpt

Excerpt from the story “True Surrealism”

The smell of grease in the Horseshoe Diner was strong, like the residuals of every meal that had ever been cooked over its open griddle. I lingered in a corner booth near the window, speaking to my wife Ava on the cell phone. With as much free time as a corpse, I pondered past mistakes, but I kept the call short before she asked too many questions and revived the dying thoughts in my mind. A man was a sharp and useful tool, I thought, as long as he never paused to consider it. ... view entire excerpt...

Discussion Questions

1) In what stories does Klim discuss societal gender roles, and how do they effect relationships and self-esteem?

2) What is “the final ingredient” needed for chef Nola Jones to complete her change toward her young understudy in the eponymous story?

3) The title story, “True Surrealism,” explores the alter egos of society or the subcultures and over-cultures that exist within the norm. How is duality seen in the everyday?

4) What are the three voices employed in “Girl in Landscape,” and how do each relate to the exploitation of children?

5) In “Complete Exposure,” becoming a nudist wreaks havoc on a marriage. How do both sudden and evolving changes effect long-term relationships?

6) Klim often writes about the dilemma of the shrinking middle class. How do these issues relate to today’s society?

7) What historical/media event, most specifically a photograph, inspired “Coffins”?

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by Egress (see profile) 06/18/12

Weblinks

»	Author Christopher Klim's web site
»	Visit the official web site for True Surrealism

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