50 States - by Richard R Becker (Paperback)

About the Book

50 States is an award-winning debut collection of short stories that captures the human condition and how perception shapes destiny. The book spans several literary genres with each short story set in a different state across America.

Book Synopsis

An Idaho farmer who aches for absolution after a tragedy is given one more chance at redemption. Two runaways cross paths in a Tennessee bus station with only one ticket between them. A family sees looters racing toward their home as they escape an Oregon wildfire. A young couple takes a reckless turn off a state highway in Utah and find themselves in a nightmarish government biohazard area.

These and 46 more shorts make up an anthology that will surprise readers with each new thought-provoking story as they skip across different genres, moods, and states of mind. Together, they provide a character-driven sampling of the American experience over the last 60 years - the kind and the cruel, the heroic and criminal - in unpredictable and suspenseful ways.

50 States is a debut collection of short stories that captures the human condition and how perception shapes destiny. The book spans several literary genres, with each short story set in a different state across America. It won first place for short stories in the Spring 2022 BookFest Awards. The author has received high praise from editorial reviewers and interest from a growing community of readers who wonder how the author will continue his work.

Review Quotes

Praise For 50 States "A cleverly conceived, character-driven, if overstuffed, anthology sure to delight and enchant ... it spans many literary genres, moods, and situations, all set in a succession of American states. " - Kirkus Reviews "A stellar debut with 50 States! I fell in love with how each short story packs a punch and is memorable on its own." - Readers' Favorite "The author's writing flows from story to story effectively keeping readers wanting more. An intriguing read." - Entrada Reviews "An impressive short story collection that will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions ... good characters that were relatable and felt very real." - The Reading Bud "Richard is a superb writer, with an eloquent tongue and a tremendous turn of phrases." - Matt McAvoy Book Reviews