Cover of Pretending the Bed is a Raft

Pretending the Bed is a Raft

"Women always know more about the facts of life because most of the facts happen to women," writes a mother to her daughter in the title story of this breathtaking collection, which goes on to prove just that.

Nanci Kincaid's eight exquisite stories deftly capture the kind of moments a woman never forgets. Watching the mysterious transformation of your mother as she dolls herself up for a night on the town—with a man other than your father. Watching your best friend fall for the bad boy in town. Wondering if the man at work you're secretly in love with means something by the hand he lets linger on your arm. Kissing a man named Gable on a moonlit night when you've just found out you have only a few months left to live.

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With an irresistible narrative voice that captures both the humor and heartbreak of love, Nanci Kincaid paints a portrait of women's lifelong courtship with men that will make you laugh and cry in recognition.

Themes
feminism
Setting
1990s
Audience
adult
Length
medium · 256 pages
Form
short stories

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