Skip to Content

Book Review: How to Pick Flowers Outside of Time by Terry Farricker

How to Pick Flowers Outside of Time by Terry Farricker

Reality, it would seem, is fixed. We are born, we live, and we die. But what happens when reality blurs, when the order becomes indefinite, and we move outside of its confines, outside of time, and outside of life and death?

Reality, it would seem, is fixed. We are born, we live, and we die.

But what happens when reality blurs, when the order becomes indefinite, and we move outside of its confines, outside of time, and outside of life and death?

How to Pick Flowers Outside of Time Review

I was compensated with a small amount for my time and effort in reading the book and writing this review. However, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and are based on my honest personal experience reading the book. Nor did the publisher in any way shape or form ever pressure me to give a positive review.

How to Pick Flowers Outside of Time is an evocative collection of short stories that delve into the delicate balance between fantasy and reality, while exploring a myriad of profound human themes. These tales offer poignant glimpses into the lives of their characters, showcasing their struggles, triumphs, and profound connections.

In one story, we witness Kristina’s agonizing battle with pain that threatens to engulf her. Despite her attempts to shield herself, the intensity of her suffering gradually wears her down. It is through the unwavering presence of her son Albert by her side that Kristina finds solace and strength. His steadfast support becomes a guiding light amidst the darkness of her ordeal.

However, a glimmer of hope emerges with the introduction of Kristina’s grandmother. As her character unfolds, the narrative gains depth and nuance, drawing readers deeper into the intricate web of Kristina’s world. With each chapter, the story gains momentum, weaving a captivating tale of resilience and familial bonds.

In another tale, we follow Lucia, a young girl navigating life on the planet Murcidea. As she reflects on her surroundings and her connection to her homeland, Opriliona, Lucia grapples with the harsh realities of her existence. Her encounter with a wounded creature sparks a journey of compassion and self-discovery, as she tends to its needs in secret. Despite the challenges she faces, Lucia finds solace in her connection to her father and her unwavering determination to care for the creature.

Through the vivid imagery and poignant narratives of How to Pick Flowers Outside of Time, readers are transported to worlds both familiar and fantastical, where the human spirit shines brightest in the face of adversity. While the book boasts well-crafted narratives, some stories failed to captivate my interest as much as others. This discrepancy made it somewhat tedious to navigate through the collection. If I were reading solely for pleasure, I likely would have skipped certain stories in favor of others. However, as a reviewer, I felt compelled to endure all of them, resulting in clear favorites emerging.

The book’s strength lies in its unique and varied writing styles, particularly notable in a collection of short stories where maintaining distinctiveness can be challenging. Each story, such as Short Story 3, stands out distinctly from the rest, adding depth and diversity to the overall narrative experience. Furthermore, it is evident that the author poured immense effort and passion into the literary aspect of storytelling, infusing the prose with rich thematic exploration and emotional depth.

The narrative is imbued with profound themes of change and reflection, prompting readers to contemplate the complexities of life, death, and the enduring bonds that persist beyond the realm of the tangible. Through Kristina’s introspective journey, the narrative delicately navigates moments of beauty amidst life’s harsh realities. As Kristina confronts her pain and mortality, she discovers an inner resilience that speaks to the indomitable nature of the human spirit.

Ultimately, How to Pick Flowers Outside of Time serves as a poignant testament to the enduring power of love, family, and the transcendent beauty found even in life’s darkest moments. It resonates with hope and optimism, offering readers a glimpse into a world where humanity’s bonds triumph over adversity. The storytelling evokes a myriad of emotions, inviting readers on a profound journey of introspection and discovery that lingers long after the final page is turned.

If you liked this review and want to see other book reviews like this one, check out my book reviews collection!

About the Author of How to Pick Flowers Outside of Time

My name is Terry Farricker and I am a writer of Dark Fantasy short stories.

I was born and raised in Manchester, England, by my wonderful parents Norma and Terry.

I retired from the rat race relatively unscathed and now live in the seaside town of Blackpool, England.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.