Night in Erg Chebbi and Other Stories (Iowa Short Fiction Award) Paperback – October 1, 2015

Night in Erg Chebbi is an absolute gift. Beautifully written stories with a fantastic mix of light and dark (often moving from one to the other in the space of just a page). Surprises abound and the characters have more depth than many found in full-length novels. There is something in here for everyone -- I would buy it again, pass it around and tell my friends. A worthy prize winner and a must-have for any fan of short stories or gorgeous prose.

I just finished Night in Erg Chebbi. It is simply an outstanding bit of storytelling. Incredibly well written and imagined. I read at least 1 book a week and this will be a book I will not forget. It is a great collection of short stories. I don't think I could tell you which was my favorite. They were all so completely enjoyable. Compelling & Terrific!

I got an almost "Rod Serling" feeling from these stories. They've got a tonality, like an emotional "Twilight Zone" feel to them. They're certainly not "feel good" stories, but they most definitely are "feel" stories. The writing style flows (reads) very smoothly (always a good sign to me) without hesitations or potholes that interrupt the story.Highly recommended.

I loved this book! Hamlin's exquisite use of language builds rich characters and suspenseful plot lines that left me intrigued and wanting more from this new author. We've enjoyed this for our family book club (ages ranging from 18 to 80!)

Excellent writing with interesting characters and story lines.

4.5 starsA brilliant collection of short stories, varied, well-written, highly entertaining, with minimal but really interesting plots and full of characters so human, believable and well-drawn that you really care about them and even understand them when you perfectly know they’re not making the most sensible things.It would be really a tough choice if I had to choose my favorite story, as I liked every one of them, and I’m sure that several of them will linger in my mind for a long time.

Amazingly diverse, inventive, unexpected narratives. Magical use of language and imagery. Where Mr. Hamlin gets his inspirations, I don't know. I think He has surpassed my prior favorite short story teller with this collection. Cannot wait for more of his work.

I loved all these stories. They have remained with me after finishing this impressive collection of short stories.