A short collection of beautiful glimpses into the lives of Dubliners around the turn of the century, and into the talent of James Joyce. At times heart rending, at times sublime this collection culminates in The Dead, a truly masterful piece of writing.

One of my favourite short stories was actually really early on in the book called An Encounter, I couldn't tell you why exactly, just that the tone set and the vivid details were something I felt carried throughout the book.

There's no excuse not to read this short story collection, I only hope that the rest of his books are as good.

DO NOT read the bantam classics edition, it's poorly made and I felt like I was breaking my fingers just to keep the pages open.