Review of Ghosts in the Toolbox

[Purplesturv]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Ghosts in the Toolbox" by Dini Armstrong.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Ghosts in the Toolbox and other nonsense is a collection of flash fiction written by Dini Armstrong in no sequential order. The author explored several relatable themes ranging from fantasy, ageing, birth, death, romance, grief, heartbreak, abuse, parenting, self-discovery, adventure, etc.

This genre is unique, with no particular focus on plot or character development. Each tale was rendered in the most absorbing, inexplicable, or dramatic way that evoked emotions and reality. Some stories had surprise endings or shocking reveals, while plot twists characterised others.

The author’s writing style is very impeccable. The plot is straightforward with very little or no backstory, conveying strong emotion or disposition. The characters in most stories were limited to two, and the author opted for original figures of speech, beautifully crafted to create humorous and intense stories. She also included beautiful illustrations done by Sarah Armstrong, which bolsters the meaning and visualises the nano tales.

My favourite tale is “A Shooting Star”. I liked how the author subtly hinted at the press’s damage while using figures of speech to describe it. I resonated deeply with “Thirty Birthday Cakes”. It made me think deeply about how both parents and children help raise each other. It was refreshing to learn that justice was served in “Elizabeth Hopkins Did Not Cry”, especially since it is based on a true-life story. I particularly liked that the topics were random, and their titles were not limited to a few words. And although they were concise, mostly less than 60 words, they were thought-provoking, and they mostly sent powerful messages across.

Nevertheless, I thought a few stories lacked direction, and I didn’t find them relatable. Also, in ‘The Hotel Lift’, the author referred to irritable bowel syndrome with the abbreviation IBS. The author should have included the full meaning either in the text or as a footnote for people who might not be familiar with the condition. Another discredit is that the pages are not numbered.

Despite the aforementioned woes, I would still rate Ghosts in the Toolbox and other nonsense four out of four stars. The author's ability to express exciting and relevant ideas in such few words is highly commendable, and it made the book a fascinating read. I did not encounter any errors, so I would say it was exceptionally edited, and the illustrations did add meaning to the succinct yet powerful stories. This is my first read in this genre, and I totally enjoyed it. I would recommend it to literature lovers, whom I feel would have a deeper connection with the book, and adult readers who are up for a quick, enthralling read.

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Ghosts in the Toolbox
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Amy Luman]

I don’t really like short stories and the title did not make the contents clear. You did, however, and I’m sure it will appeal to others.

[Apple 7]

The book though brief and diverse in content seems to pass exciting and intriguing messages to the reader.....very nice review

[Phelicia Gloria]

Wow this book must be amazing, what attracted me was the other none sense stories you mentioned in your review. It's a must read for me.

[Ogechi Orlumeni]

Although many might disagree, I love short stories. Sometimes they move too fast or have unsatisfactory endings, but they are still a wonderful read.

[Aisha Yakub]

This would appeal to people who like short, simple and fun stories. Great review.

[Purplesturv]

Although many might disagree, I love short stories. Sometimes they move too fast or have unsatisfactory endings, but they are still a wonderful read.

I totally agree. Thanks for dropping by.

[Purplesturv]

This would appeal to people who like short, simple and fun stories. Great review.

Thank you

[Ronnie Comendador 1]

Adventure, fantasy,death, romance,self discovery, parenting,heartbreak etc. what a combination in a unique way with a 4 out of 4 review i think this is a great story.cant wait to read it..thanks for the review..

[Purplesturv]

Adventure, fantasy,death, romance,self discovery, parenting,heartbreak etc. what a combination in a unique way with a 4 out of 4 review i think this is a great story.cant wait to read it..thanks for the review.

You should read it. It's an exciting quick read.

[Purplesturv]

The book though brief and diverse in content seems to pass exciting and intriguing messages to the reader.....very nice review

The messages are indeed valuable. Thank you.

[Purplesturv]

The book though brief and diverse in content seems to pass exciting and intriguing messages to the reader.....very nice review

The messages are indeed valuable. Thank you.