This was my first ever Goodreads First Reads win ever, and so, it kind of gets an automatic extra star in my head because that's just special. And the crowd is probably bored, so I'll get on with my review: technically, I'd give this collection somewhere between the 4.5-5 range of rating and I say this because Hittinger has done something really neat here that I think he may lose some of us in the process. The collection may seem tame and innocent; however, I found it extremely thought provoking. Every single piece here made me pause and think. And, honestly, even though I'm "done" with it, I know I'm going to go back and reread it the whole collection again.

I may have to do this a few times. It's not because this collection may seem like it is for someone who is either interested in surrealism, in the metaphysical, mythological, or just straight up imaginary. I mean, that's what the cover suggested to me. I think it's because the subject matter is difficult to grasp: change. I mean, how the heck do you grasp it? Hittinger complicates it by showing you how different people react to different forms of change. And some of it is terrifying, some of it is sad. I don't think Hittinger is necessarily talking about transformation mythological in the literal sense, at least not entirely. You can read it as such and enjoy it that way; you sure will get some werewolves and other fun creatures (from a variety of cultures, thank goodness).

What I thought was most enjoyable about this collection was that Hittinger is literally shifting and transforming everything. He messes around with language, with identity, with bodies, relationships. He toys around with format in every piece here. He uses the paper differently. You will not get bored just by skimming this collection.

"Skin Shift" was a wonderful read because it was inspiring. It was different, quirky, thought-provoking, and the author did not shy away from making the reader work--maybe even struggle, to engage with his work. That's what a good piece of art should do: linger in your head and keep you thinking because we're meant to be grappling with a thought, with...something.

Thank you, Goodreads for this opportunity. Matthew Hittinger, I am so glad I have read this book and you certainly made my skin shift--goosebumps, eyebrow raises, gasps of eureka moments, and all. Thank you.

I hope you all enjoyed this review! Maybe you can pick up this collection, or at least give it a skim. It's worth a shot.