Table for Two - Book Review

Author Eliot Parker has collected ten of his nonfiction short stories into an anthology, Table for Two.  A browsing reader will be attracted to the book’s cover, and when reading the back cover, the reader will be teased to find out what happened to his variety of humanity.  Parker’s relatable, earthy characters are identified with specific mannerisms, dress, surroundings, and psychological make-up. With the author’s theme of emphasis on face-to-face conversations, the characters interact through dialogue and (usually) active listening. 

The ten short stories are as varied as the characters involved. Most stories involve lower socio/economic and average people in the Appalachia region.  The reader is given a brief glimpse into their private world, relationships, family dynamics, and the search for truth.

The collection of ten short stories includes the following titles: "From the Stars Above," "Maid of Honor," "The River," "Bless Her," "Table for Two," "Birthday Boy," "Lottery,""Appraisal," "Underneath," and "Giving." A quick synopsis of "From the Stars Above" is an inspiring short story about a daughter's journey to embrace her father's advancing dementia. As she navigates the challenges of his fading memories, the story delves into the complexities of familial love and the poignant process of letting go. Through tender interactions and heartfelt reflections, the narrative captures the enduring bond that persists even as the shadows of memory grow longer.

"Lottery" is a much different story of family dynamics and the complexities of greed. What unfolds when Mommy unexpectedly wins a hundred thousand dollars in the lottery? Her conniving, greedy, and selfish children quickly swoop in, each determined to claim what they perceive as their rightful share. Tensions rise, and relationships strain as the siblings resort to cunning tactics and deceit to secure their piece of the windfall. How far will they go to take what they consider their share? This captivating story vividly portrays greed and how familial bonds can unravel when money is at stake. The story highlights the lengths to which people will go when blinded by greed.

"Table for Two" tells the poignant story of Manford, who grieves the loss of his partner Grant after spending 30 years together. In his sorrow, Grant's memory becomes Manford's constant, albeit imaginary, companion. Every Friday night, Manford honors their cherished tradition by dining at the restaurant and table they once shared, keeping Grant's memory alive by even ordering his favorite meal. This routine, while comforting, also binds him to the past. The narrative explores how traditions can both soothe and confine us, and what happens when Manford must confront the imaginary presence of his unseen friend.

The reader will meet an overbearing mother, dysfunctional and greedy siblings, trust and betrayal, as well as blessings.

Parker is an award-winning author, winning the 2020 PenCraft Literary Award and other awards for his fiction.  He is the author of several thriller novels.  The reader will recognize his expertise as a thriller writer in his short stories. Readers will find themselves becoming more astute people-watchers and may become eavesdroppers wanting to elaborate on what they witness and hear. Parker is an excellent observer of common people as well as those who are hard up and needy.

The reader will empathize with the friends and family caught up in his thrilling and often shocking stories.  These short tales may or may not have a takeaway moral, but they all end with a cliffhanger and indicate action should be taken.