James R. Gapinski

Fruit Rot

By, James R. Gapinski

Physical Book - Paperback Chapbook

Pages - 24

Obtained: Goodreads Giveaway and asked for an Honest Review

As this is a very short book being only twenty-four pages I'm going to do my best not to reveal any spoilers or at the very least very few. The story follows a couple as they are trying to just survive in life. This short story sucked me into it as if I were the main character. I don't know how one could make this story longer and more in depth, but if there was ever a longer story with a similar premise or remake that is a lot longer I feel I would very much enjoy having that. This type of quick short story reminds me of some of the works of Edgar Allan Poe or other fables in the way that it sucks you in and tells you a story without being overly long.

In my opinion even though this is a incredibly quick read, it will entertain you and then challenge you by making you question who is the real villain.

I give this read 4 Fruits out of 5.

Until next time,

-Teo… (más)

Reading this short story felt like entering a modern day (capitalism) fairy tale/tragedy. The themes of greed, health, villainy, and poverty are woven in and around the main characters who discover a tree in their yard that produces magical, healing fruit. The first bite heals the eater of whatever physical and mental illnesses they might be suffering. After that, the fruit turns black and rotten. Taking a second bite from the fruit has horrific consequences. As people line up to pay the ever-increasing price to get their healing bite, the once-poor characters become immensely wealthy. Only those who can afford to pay are able to be healed, not necessarily those who need it most. This trajectory comes to a head when people start trying to sneak onto the property - including one persistent woman who plays a pivotal role in the final scene of the story.… (más)