What is Keith Hollihan reading?

This weekend's featured contributor at Writers Read: Keith Hollihan, author of The Four Stages of Cruelty.

The entry begins:

My book club chose Charles Portis’ True Grit this month, and I’ve enjoyed re-reading that. It’s the narrative voice that really takes you along – the unlikely but believable bravery and stoicism of 14-year-old Mattie. It’s a spare, quick story but very evocative, not unlike Daniel Woodrell’s Winter’s Bone, and the incredible film by Debra Granik. Portis’ range also amazes me – like Walter Tevis and Thomas Berger, he has written strong books in a number of genres. I’m looking forward to seeing what the Coen Brothers do...[read on]

Among the early praise for The Four Stages of Cruelty:

“...a stunning, unforgettable story.”
--Kate Christensen, The Great Man

“This is one intense book, brutally sad and heartbreakingly brutal.... I found it impossible to put down...”
--Dan Chaon, Await Your Reply

“Hollihan’s astonishing debut...As thoughtful as it is violent...”
--Kirkus (starred review)

“Hollihan’s impressive first novel, a complex and atmospheric thriller...”
--Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Best Books of 2010”
--Publishers Weekly

Read an excerpt from The Four Stages of Cruelty, and learn more about the book and author at Keith Hollihan's website.

The Page 69 Test: The Four Stages of Cruelty.

Writers Read: Keith Hollihan.

--Marshal Zeringue