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Gifts Not Yet Given
From award-winning author Kergan Edwards-Stout comes fourteen tales designed to delight and enthrall, which landed on multiple "Best Books" lists. In Gifts Not Yet Given, a warm and nuanced collection of short stories, dreams are realized, hope is found, memories are made, and life is treasured. Each is set around a holiday, from Halloween to Memorial Day, Thanksgiving to Christmas, and the tales illuminate the small, surprising, and pivotal moments in which personal awakenings occur and hearts expand.
In Gifts Not Yet Given, you’ll find yourself inspired by the magic of the holidays, touched by our shared humanity, and moved by the simple pleasures found in life’s many unexpected moments.
"Gifts Not Given is a wonderful collection of stories from Kergan Edwards-Stout in which each story centers around a holiday. The stories are complex, surprising, touching and written with compassion and humanity, two qualities sadly lacking in so much contemporary fiction. I highly recommend Gifts Not Given and thank the author for this gift he has given us." Michael Nava, winner of six Lambda Literary Awards as well as the Bill Whitehead Literary Award for Career Achievement
“The stories in Gifts Not Yet Given are vital, essential and remind us that much of human life is gained or lost through family. Edwards-Stout shines a light on contemporary life with skill and wit. A dynamic and engaging read.” Trebor Healey, two-time Ferro-Grumley Fiction Award winner, A Horse Named Sorrow and Through It Came Bright Colors
"Kergan Edwards-Stout's stories are muscular, funny, sad and an antidote to holiday treacle, no matter the holiday. His writing is fueled by an original mix of compassion and rage. Several of the stories left me in tears, which certainly beats being left in tears by my own family at holiday time. Which means: he understands family, and the often crossed wires of family love. You will want to give his book as a gift." Richard Kramer, novelist, These Things Happen
In Gifts Not Yet Given, you’ll find yourself inspired by the magic of the holidays, touched by our shared humanity, and moved by the simple pleasures found in life’s many unexpected moments.
"Gifts Not Given is a wonderful collection of stories from Kergan Edwards-Stout in which each story centers around a holiday. The stories are complex, surprising, touching and written with compassion and humanity, two qualities sadly lacking in so much contemporary fiction. I highly recommend Gifts Not Given and thank the author for this gift he has given us." Michael Nava, winner of six Lambda Literary Awards as well as the Bill Whitehead Literary Award for Career Achievement
“The stories in Gifts Not Yet Given are vital, essential and remind us that much of human life is gained or lost through family. Edwards-Stout shines a light on contemporary life with skill and wit. A dynamic and engaging read.” Trebor Healey, two-time Ferro-Grumley Fiction Award winner, A Horse Named Sorrow and Through It Came Bright Colors
"Kergan Edwards-Stout's stories are muscular, funny, sad and an antidote to holiday treacle, no matter the holiday. His writing is fueled by an original mix of compassion and rage. Several of the stories left me in tears, which certainly beats being left in tears by my own family at holiday time. Which means: he understands family, and the often crossed wires of family love. You will want to give his book as a gift." Richard Kramer, novelist, These Things Happen
- GenresFictionShort Stories
216 pages, Paperback
First published October 7, 2013
1 person is currently reading
357 people want to read
About the author
Kergan Edwards-Stout
6 books52 followersKergan Edwards-Stout is an award-winning director, screenwriter, and author, whose new fictional memoir Never Turn Your Back on the Tide (Or, How I Married a Lying, Psychopathic Wannabe-Murderer and Kinda Lived to Tell) is a 2020 IndieReader award winner and a 2020 Next Generation Indie Book Award finalist. His debut novel, Songs for the New Depression, won a 2012 Next Generation Indie Book Award, was shortlisted for the Independent Literary Awards, was named one of the Top Books for 2012 by Out in Print. His collection, Gifts Not Yet Given, landed on multiple Best Book lists and was a finalist in the Next Generation Indie Book Awards. His greatest honor, however, was to have been named one of the Human Rights Campaign's 2011 Fathers of the Year, as his husband and children nominated him. http://kerganedwards-stout.com
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 14, 2013
"Very Thought Provoking Adult Short Stories"
Now with fall arriving and soon the exciting holidays such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, it's a time to share memories. Renowned Author Kergan Edwards-Stout shares with us his stimulating short stories and tales, filled with compassion, understanding, and some humor. The theme of many of the stories involve mothers, some loving, some domineering, some unkind. I'm sure most of us can relate to some of these stories. The stories surely do reveal how all of us soul search on who we are and what we think we want out life. Life can be a struggle, but life is what we face each day and eventually we all smile at seeing the sunrise each day that remains of our life. These stories reflect the acceptance that we all seek from our families and friends. Of course, the holidays are the time we look forward to family gatherings, hopefully always joyful and loving. These stories also reveal how important good families are crucial in how we feel about facing life's challenges with courage. These stories reflect on these challenges and are very thought provoking. Needless to say, Kergan Edwards-Stout has written another winning book for all adults to read. Surely many of these stories will touch a nerve and cause one to reflect on personal memories. This collection is one that I will read again ... and perhaps again. It's very motivational.
Now with fall arriving and soon the exciting holidays such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, it's a time to share memories. Renowned Author Kergan Edwards-Stout shares with us his stimulating short stories and tales, filled with compassion, understanding, and some humor. The theme of many of the stories involve mothers, some loving, some domineering, some unkind. I'm sure most of us can relate to some of these stories. The stories surely do reveal how all of us soul search on who we are and what we think we want out life. Life can be a struggle, but life is what we face each day and eventually we all smile at seeing the sunrise each day that remains of our life. These stories reflect the acceptance that we all seek from our families and friends. Of course, the holidays are the time we look forward to family gatherings, hopefully always joyful and loving. These stories also reveal how important good families are crucial in how we feel about facing life's challenges with courage. These stories reflect on these challenges and are very thought provoking. Needless to say, Kergan Edwards-Stout has written another winning book for all adults to read. Surely many of these stories will touch a nerve and cause one to reflect on personal memories. This collection is one that I will read again ... and perhaps again. It's very motivational.
February 24, 2014
Following the success of his stunning debut novel, "Songs For The New Depression,: author Kergan Edwards-Stout returns with an anthology of short stories called "Gifts Not Yet Given." And it is another page-turner from this talented scribe.
Each story is centered around a holiday but this is not a book for holiday reading only. The stories and settings run the gamut in terms of seasonal and personal meaning. The book is brimming with characters you’ll love not only because they’re so well written but also you’ll know someone in your own life who could be almost every one of these folks. While “A Doris Day Christmas” and “The Stepping Stone” are personal favorites contained herein, each entry is a masterpiece unto itself. The stories are written with a deft hand by an author who knows how to entertain his audience.
Very few writers can touch a reader’s heart but Kergan Edwards-Stout knows how to do just that. "Gifts Not Yet Given" easily jumped onto my top ten books read in the past year and it will remain a favored selection in my library. With so many writers competing in the literary world today, it takes a true author to rise above the pack, and Mr. Edwards-Stout is one of those few gifted storytellers. 5 Stars.
Each story is centered around a holiday but this is not a book for holiday reading only. The stories and settings run the gamut in terms of seasonal and personal meaning. The book is brimming with characters you’ll love not only because they’re so well written but also you’ll know someone in your own life who could be almost every one of these folks. While “A Doris Day Christmas” and “The Stepping Stone” are personal favorites contained herein, each entry is a masterpiece unto itself. The stories are written with a deft hand by an author who knows how to entertain his audience.
Very few writers can touch a reader’s heart but Kergan Edwards-Stout knows how to do just that. "Gifts Not Yet Given" easily jumped onto my top ten books read in the past year and it will remain a favored selection in my library. With so many writers competing in the literary world today, it takes a true author to rise above the pack, and Mr. Edwards-Stout is one of those few gifted storytellers. 5 Stars.
September 21, 2013
This collection of short stories take on American holidays and family relationships. Many of them include gay and lesbian characters, either as the main character, or a side element in the lives of their parents or other family members.
There is a sad regretful tone to the interior thoughts of some, and other stories are more like character sketches that don't have much of a plot. That's okay; I wasn't expecting O. Henry shockers. And Edwards-Stout has a knack for quick characterizations that place the reader in a setting efficiently. But the overall tone is often one of sadness, regret, and discomfort, particularly with parents who cannot face their disappointment in their children. For many, that's what the holidays are about!
Yet a light of understanding and humanity shines in some of the better stories, "Glenbourne, IL," in particular. A proud and forceful mother finally comes around to her daughter-in-law in a touching way; worth a read.
There is a sad regretful tone to the interior thoughts of some, and other stories are more like character sketches that don't have much of a plot. That's okay; I wasn't expecting O. Henry shockers. And Edwards-Stout has a knack for quick characterizations that place the reader in a setting efficiently. But the overall tone is often one of sadness, regret, and discomfort, particularly with parents who cannot face their disappointment in their children. For many, that's what the holidays are about!
Yet a light of understanding and humanity shines in some of the better stories, "Glenbourne, IL," in particular. A proud and forceful mother finally comes around to her daughter-in-law in a touching way; worth a read.
October 17, 2013
GIFTS NOT YET GIVEN: And Other Tales of the Holidays is a beautiful compilation of 14 short stories all centered around special occasions and the holidays. The stories are touching and unexpected and as a whole they are a feast for the senses.
Full review to follow.
Disclaimer: An ARC of this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Full review to follow.
Disclaimer: An ARC of this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
November 18, 2013
I won this through First Reads - a beautiful book of short stories - Just in time for the holidays! Loved it!
September 8, 2020
Author Kergan Edwards-Stout follows up his engrossing debut novel, "Songs for the New Depression," which examines thirty years in the life of an AIDS-stricken California man, with the equally profound, "Gifts Not Yet Given," a short story collection of compelling characters and circumstances ranging from the mundane to the maladjusted.
The events depicted in all fourteen stories occur on or around a specific day of celebration, including family gathering holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, such festive occasions as Halloween and Mardi Gras, Mother's and Father's Day, as well as the obligatory wedding and office party. With a holiday or special occasion as the backdrop for each entry, emotions run especially high throughout and the behavior of the represented individuals is contrary to the everyday.
One of the strongest and more uplifting stories, "Hearts," describes the unbreakable friendship between Karyn, an insecure teen, and her gay best friend, Kevin, who accompany each other to a high school Valentine's Day dance. The equally heartwarming "The Fourth Christmas" introduces Andrew and David, a couple celebrating their fourth anniversary despite the opposition of Andrew's conservative mother, Natalie.
Conservatism and religion appear prominently in several stories, including "The Old Rugged Cross," a heartbreaking, albeit somewhat affirming, tale of a mother, Cassandra, who begins to question her faith and purpose in life after her firefighter husband and son perish in the line of duty. Evelyn, the stubborn, bible-thumping protagonist in the grim "Mother's Day," believes having three estranged sons is just another example of God's will. Thom, Evelyn's youngest son, makes a surprising, conciliatory appearance in the sequel, "Father's Day."
My personal favorite, "Glenbourne, IL" tells the moving story of a cancer survivor revisiting his past during a Thanksgiving visit to his childhood home.
Although select stories are arguably too brief, all never fail to pack an emotional punch, and the collection, as a whole, is chock full of joyous albeit occasionally awkward instances and imagery (divorce, a sacred family recipe, an Easter bunny outfit) that are relatable, or at least familiar to everyone. With the holiday season approaching, "Gifts Not Yet Given" reminds readers, however flawed, to accept, appreciate and when warranted, forgive our families and friends.
The events depicted in all fourteen stories occur on or around a specific day of celebration, including family gathering holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, such festive occasions as Halloween and Mardi Gras, Mother's and Father's Day, as well as the obligatory wedding and office party. With a holiday or special occasion as the backdrop for each entry, emotions run especially high throughout and the behavior of the represented individuals is contrary to the everyday.
One of the strongest and more uplifting stories, "Hearts," describes the unbreakable friendship between Karyn, an insecure teen, and her gay best friend, Kevin, who accompany each other to a high school Valentine's Day dance. The equally heartwarming "The Fourth Christmas" introduces Andrew and David, a couple celebrating their fourth anniversary despite the opposition of Andrew's conservative mother, Natalie.
Conservatism and religion appear prominently in several stories, including "The Old Rugged Cross," a heartbreaking, albeit somewhat affirming, tale of a mother, Cassandra, who begins to question her faith and purpose in life after her firefighter husband and son perish in the line of duty. Evelyn, the stubborn, bible-thumping protagonist in the grim "Mother's Day," believes having three estranged sons is just another example of God's will. Thom, Evelyn's youngest son, makes a surprising, conciliatory appearance in the sequel, "Father's Day."
My personal favorite, "Glenbourne, IL" tells the moving story of a cancer survivor revisiting his past during a Thanksgiving visit to his childhood home.
Although select stories are arguably too brief, all never fail to pack an emotional punch, and the collection, as a whole, is chock full of joyous albeit occasionally awkward instances and imagery (divorce, a sacred family recipe, an Easter bunny outfit) that are relatable, or at least familiar to everyone. With the holiday season approaching, "Gifts Not Yet Given" reminds readers, however flawed, to accept, appreciate and when warranted, forgive our families and friends.
January 12, 2014
Kergan Edwards-Stout is a good writer. The short story is a format that doesn't necessarily satisfy me, because it doesn't offer the opportunity to really fully immerse oneself in a characters. Except, of course, when it does.
Edwards-Stout's first book, the much applauded "Songs for a New Depression," resonates throughout this collection of stories. While the holiday theme is consistent, these are not so much holiday stories as stories that explore the emotional charge that holidays release. The novel was very much autiobiographical, and one can see bits and pieces of the author's life glimmering within the thoughtful prose of these smaller works.
The two stories that hit me hardest were "The Cape," about a single gay man heading out to Provincetown to spend a solitary Christmas in his cottage, and the title story, "Gifts not Yet Given," which centers on a woman's obsessive planning for her teenage daughter. They are very different stories, but both of them brought me to tears because of their very different connections to my own life. And that's what I like in an author - finding something that touches a nerve that sets my own mind spinning.
Now, I'm one of these cranky older gay men who feels that gay authors should write about gay characters. I found myself resenting the fact that Edwards-Stout doesn't always include gay characters in his stories ... but I forced myself to get over my own prejudices and just read. "The Cape" focuses on a gay man, while "Gifts Not Yet Given" is about a straight couple. Yet they had similar emotional impact for me.
That's what you need to do for collections of short stories - be patient, keep reading, honor the commitment of the author by taking the time to read and listen and let your mind see what the author is writing. It's worth the trouble.
Edwards-Stout's first book, the much applauded "Songs for a New Depression," resonates throughout this collection of stories. While the holiday theme is consistent, these are not so much holiday stories as stories that explore the emotional charge that holidays release. The novel was very much autiobiographical, and one can see bits and pieces of the author's life glimmering within the thoughtful prose of these smaller works.
The two stories that hit me hardest were "The Cape," about a single gay man heading out to Provincetown to spend a solitary Christmas in his cottage, and the title story, "Gifts not Yet Given," which centers on a woman's obsessive planning for her teenage daughter. They are very different stories, but both of them brought me to tears because of their very different connections to my own life. And that's what I like in an author - finding something that touches a nerve that sets my own mind spinning.
Now, I'm one of these cranky older gay men who feels that gay authors should write about gay characters. I found myself resenting the fact that Edwards-Stout doesn't always include gay characters in his stories ... but I forced myself to get over my own prejudices and just read. "The Cape" focuses on a gay man, while "Gifts Not Yet Given" is about a straight couple. Yet they had similar emotional impact for me.
That's what you need to do for collections of short stories - be patient, keep reading, honor the commitment of the author by taking the time to read and listen and let your mind see what the author is writing. It's worth the trouble.
November 28, 2014
There isn’t a lot to say about this collection that isn’t in the description other than to say it lives up to its promise. Excellent, well written stories that evoke a wide range of emotions from the reader. An example, and one of my favorites, is the story call Festive Beaver, the story of an elementary school boy who discovers talents and inclinations that he doesn’t yet understand while helping put together a Mardi Gras celebration.
In many of the stories, I found that I figured things out before they were fully revealed or the story’s focal character discovered things on their own. This set the stories up in such a way that I was pulling for the character, not only to discover or learn what they needed to, but also to do so in the least painful possible way. The ability to pull me into a short story as quickly and deeply as these did is a talent I don’t see often in shorter works.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
In many of the stories, I found that I figured things out before they were fully revealed or the story’s focal character discovered things on their own. This set the stories up in such a way that I was pulling for the character, not only to discover or learn what they needed to, but also to do so in the least painful possible way. The ability to pull me into a short story as quickly and deeply as these did is a talent I don’t see often in shorter works.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
February 8, 2014
I received this book through Library Thing's Early Reviewers program, and am quite happy I did as it's not typically the type of book I would pick up off the shelf at a bookstore.
I started reading this book several months ago, then took a long hiatus while reading other books and finally finished it today. I really enjoyed Edwards-Stout's style, his characters are likable and contain a good amount of depth; especially considering the short story format. I like that each story is centered around a holiday; it lends a certain continuity to the book as a whole and adds a richness to these tales of families, gifts, and love.
I would consider this a fairly quick read, although perhaps best not read straight through. My favorite stories were "Glenbourne, Il." and "Gifts not Given". I am not sure I'll reread this book, but it was certainly an enjoyable one-timer.
I started reading this book several months ago, then took a long hiatus while reading other books and finally finished it today. I really enjoyed Edwards-Stout's style, his characters are likable and contain a good amount of depth; especially considering the short story format. I like that each story is centered around a holiday; it lends a certain continuity to the book as a whole and adds a richness to these tales of families, gifts, and love.
I would consider this a fairly quick read, although perhaps best not read straight through. My favorite stories were "Glenbourne, Il." and "Gifts not Given". I am not sure I'll reread this book, but it was certainly an enjoyable one-timer.
January 29, 2015
This collection of 14 stories is a definite keeper. Well crafted and engaging, the stories do center around the holidays, whether that be Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Mother's Day. In many ways, the stories drew me back to an anthology from a generation earlier, Adam Mars-Jones' Monopolies of Loss. Like that collection, these Gifts are ones that will continue to give as I fully intend to keep the book handy for re-reading. Each story rang true, and at times I wondered how the author knew so much about my own life. Do I recommend this collection? Wholeheartedly, and I've already ordered the author's prize winning novel, Songs for the New Depression.
November 17, 2013
Edwards-Stout has once again given his readers a meaningful book full of beautiful prose - this time through the art of short stories that center around different holidays. I was lucky enough to read an early copy last year and it was a pleasure to see how those stories have been shaped since then. The author is wonderful at causing his readers to feel through his stories - and unless you are heartless; you WILL feel. The only reason you see 4 stars on my review is because I'm not a huge fan of short stories. But don't let that stop you from unwrapping this wonderful gift for the holidays!
November 27, 2013
I received this book from Circumspect Press as an early reviewer. I was very grateful to receive the book and eager to read it. While I looked forward to the idea of the book and it's "........Tales of The Holidays", it just wasn't an enjoyable read to me. I would read some of the short stories and then wonder to myself what was I supposed to get from that particular story. Had I not felt obligated to review the book, I would not have finished reading it. I suppose it's all subjective but these types of stories missed the mark with me. ( )
December 19, 2013
Gifts Not Yet Given by Kergan Edwards -Stout is a book of short stories. Each story is unique and only 2 of the stories are directly related. They are all similar, trying to right a wrong. Some storied are gay while others are straight. What unites the stories is they all evolve around a holiday. There is a flaw in a character that is revealed. This is a first read win and I have given my honest opinion.
January 7, 2014
After receiving a copy of Gifts Not Yet Given from Goodreads Firstreads,I found the book to be an interesting collection of stories centered around various holidays. Some of the stories were just okay for me, but others captured my interest... so much so that I wish they were more than just a short story.
September 5, 2014
Edwards-Stout populates his holiday-themed short story collection beautifully with vivid characters and lots of universal holiday dysfunction. Anyone who has ever survived holiday angst (hand raised!) will love these stories filled with awkward, poignant, funny and redemptive scenes. Edwards-Stout's richly-wrought, cinematic style is emotionally intelligent and a pure pleasure on the page.
November 28, 2015
Beautifully written short stories depicting people in real situations, sometimes heart-rending. The stories are related to a holiday or special day. Exquisite details. I'll now see what else I can find by this author.
November 11, 2013
Good, but the author is trying too obviously to make a point. I prefer stories to be a little more subtle. Might be a worthwhile read for teenagers questioning their sexual identity.
December 1, 2013
Edgy, heartwarming holiday stories. Edwards-Stout does a good job pulling at the heart stings. His stories have good human relationship values to tell.
August 15, 2015
I can only echo the sentiment of most of the other reviewers. The book is very well written and each story is interesting and thought provoking.
February 5, 2016
Collection of stories set around various holidays that are concise and and entertaining which speak to themes of family, friendships, and religion.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews