These stories feel as urgent and important today as they would have when they were written. This collection is important in telling this part of history.

BOOK: NEIGHBORS AND OTHER STORIES
AUTHOR: DIANE OLIVER
PUB DATE: 13 FEB 2024
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REVIEW
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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This is the second short stories collection I read this month and I'm on a roll. This collection was very good, set in the mid- late 1900s. There was a lot of racism, Jim Crow laws were in existence then too. So I felt everything. But, my favorite part of this selection was how realistic it was. It was like reading a collection of every day living of black people, mostly women and I liked that. I liked almost every stories here too except Frozen Voices, I didn't even finish it. It's definitely worth your time.
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NEIGHBORS
Okay. Took a long time to get a gist of the book. But, I wanted to see the aftermath of what happened with Tommy and his school
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THE CLOSET ON THE TOP FLOOR
Winifred is the only black person in her college. She has some sort of mental illness like ocd. The book was totally about her mental illness which went untreated.
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BEFORE TWILIGHT
A poignant short story that showed an inkling at the racism black people went through and are still going through. Very realistic
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HEALTH SERVICE
She walked a long distance to see a doctor but the doctor left without seeing much of the patients including her. She's struggling to raise 4 kids on her own after her husband left. My heart broke for her, she was going through a lot
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MINT JULEP NOT SERVED HERE
I think both Mr and Mrs Mack are crazy. I don't understand the reason for their drastic actions and paranoia.
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KEY TO THE CITY
It was okay. I just didn't like the mother's drastic actions. She had a perfect life, she could have stayed.
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THE VISITOR
I liked this,but I didn't like the FMC. She cared too much about appearances and I didn't like the way she acted towards her husband's daughter from another marriage
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BANACO KALT
Millie. 23. Went to Switzerland on an exchange program. I loved reading her mundane experiences in Switzerland. I'm sure it was a huge culture shock for her. V
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WHEN THE APPLES ARE RIPE
Jonnie-boy, a boy with a brother who's leaving home soon. And Mrs Gilkey, a old woman living alone. Probably white. The focus on the story was Jonnie's older brother who was moving away for activism and his father didn't want that.
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TRAFFIC JAM
I don't know why it was named Traffic Jam. But, the book is about a maid, Libby with 5 children and a negligent husband. I only read a day in her life and I got tired alread
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NO BROWN SUGAR IN ANYBODY'S MILK
Funny, but kinda sad too when you reach the ending. I'm glad Essie T was not whom i thought she was
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FROZEN VOICES
My least favorite. I didn't even understand the write up and I didn't finish it. Something about a cheating woman, Jenny who played with the emotions or men
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OUR TRIP TO THE NATURE MUSEUM
A day in the life of Miss Spears, a concerned class teacher of Latonya. A black girl from a poor home. The book described Latonya's difficult situation and Miss Spears thoughts about it.
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SPIDERS CRY WITHOUT TEARS
Follows a white woman, Meg who got into a relationship with a light skinned black man. The ending was actually very sad, but realistic
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Like I said, realistic.

The stories in this book, written in the 1960s, describe scenarios from the lives of African Americans during attempts at desegregation in the South. The collection is essential reading for understanding today’s remaining inequities in the social determinants of health in the United States. I think these stories should be studied as a historical source. Oliver paints nuanced pictures of Black, white, and biracial characters of that period, and Tayari Jones provides a framework for understanding them in her erudite introduction. It’s truly a privilege to be able to read these stories today, I’m just so thankful that Diane Oliver’s precocious work was discovered before her untimely death, and finally brought together in this collection today.

Wow, what a treat. This is a collection of short stories written by Diane Oliver before she died at just 22 years old in 1966. These stories explore racial issues in the 50s and 60s in America. A lot of her storied have an eerie feel too them, particularly "Mint Juleps Not Served Here" which was my favorite story in the collection. I love short stories but sometimes have a bit of trouble feeling connected to the characters since they are shorter than a novel, I did not have that issue at all with Oliver's stories. The way she writes her characters make them seem so real, and you really care for them. Another story that was a stand out for me was "Health Service", I just felt so much for this family even though I only saw a tiny glimpse into their day. Some other stories that were 5 stars for me were "Neighbors", "Before Twilight", and "Key To the City". There was only one story I didn't feel invested in which is incredible for a short story collection. Definitely check this one out, a perfect read for Black History Month (but don't forget to read Black books all year)!

Thank you NetGalley and Grove Press for the ARC.

When I was a lot younger, I could disappear into books; or, alternatively, books could make the world disappear—the root of my love of literature. I had assumed I had lost that ability. Maybe literature has changed (or my tastes have; could it have been a genre thing?), or perhaps the world has changed. That old-fashioned feeling came all the way back while I was reading this collection.

Oliver is a stunningly assured writer. A lot of my marginalia is marvelling at how she is able to write from different points of view—mostly different women, and this is perhaps a (proto?)feminist collection, but also, very memorably, from the perspective of a young Black child viewing an old white woman and neighbour in When the Apples are Ripe. There’s a lot about Black life and the civil rights movement in here, from many perspectives: the small child burdened by the weight of integration in Neighbors; a young woman who disappears because her civil rights-minded father is challenging the system through her in The Closet on the Top Floor. The young adults who stage a sit-in at terrible personal cost (they’re still children, really!) in Before Twilight.

I found the incredibly chilling, spooky Mint Juleps Not Served Here, my favourite story of the collection, delicious, and savoured it for a while. Then there’s the experimental Frozen Voices, which has to be read to be believed; it has the rhythm of spoken-word poetry. The linked stories, Health Service and Traffic Jam pack a ferocious punch together (and are perfectly spaced out in the collection). Another favourite, Banago Kalt, where a young Black woman spends time in Switzerland, away from her civil rights organising, and has time to think about the concept of home. And, finally, the mixed couple of Spiders Cry Without Tears, from a very unexpected angle, that of the white wife.

There is so much that is thoughtful here, so much care. Oliver has a light touch with very heavy issues, but that doesn’t mean she spares the reader. This collection is about the struggles of Black people and the struggles of women, told from the most human perspective—not as sermonizing, but as story.

One of the best collections I have ever read. Oliver is certainly deserving of her place in the Black canon. Thank you to NetGalley and to Grove Atlantic!

4/5! Going into this collection, I didn't know much about its content. I was surprised to learn that it was written such a long time ago because, despite the events in the book, the writing feels quite modern and is overall easy to read. I enjoyed this collection and think it offers a unique perspective and insight because of when it was written. I honestly think this is a book that everyone should pick up!

This is a reprint of a 1960s era collection of short stories written by a young author whose career (and life) was cut short due to unfortunate circumstances. Times were challenging and turbulent and the author captured the African American experience when facing school integration, interracial dating, the battle against second-class citizenship, and many of the macro- and microaggressions that marginalized groups and those adjacent to them faced on a daily basis. This is a solid offering steeped in reality and the struggles in humanity.

Thanks to the publisher, Grove Press, and NetGalley for an opportunity to review.

3.5. I was extremely interested in this story because of learning of the authors short life. I did enjoy these stories but my only gripe was the ending to all of them. It was as if I was caught off immediately when something big was about to happen which was frustrating. IT was frustrating because I wanted something more and I felt that I was teased.

Although this will never happen I wish more stories could be given by this author...

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC! This was such a whirlwind collection of short stories — incredibly sharp, some thrilling, and overall ahead of its time. With this collection being published posthumously, it's saddening knowledge that Oliver passed at such a young age; her writing is genuinely so unforgettable and deserving of a position at the forefront of literary works.

Finishing this short story collection and realizing Diane Oliver was only 22 when she died was absolutely mind-blowing. So much range, so much deeply human understanding, so much variety, what a shame this much talent left the world so young.

Usually when reading a book of short stories I get the gist at some point and the writing style sort of blends one into the other but here? Each title had me sit up and get excited because they were all so captivating and different.

My favorites were The Closet on the Top Floor, Mint Juleps not Served Here, Banago Kalt, Our Trip to the Nature Museum, and I especially loved Health Service and Traffic Jam. Libby’s character made me crumble. I remember a scene in Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi where one of the character’s mother has no access to childcare so she leaves her toddler alone all day while she works and he cries himself to sleep on a mattress on the floor. I felt the same reading about Libby going to work and having to leave her baby on the porch so the lady watching him can bring him in later. I felt the same listening to They were her Property and the way enslaved Black women were expected to work immediately after giving birth. And I felt the same recently seeing the degrading responses to that photo of a young Black woman holding her child on her hip while working behind some fast food counter. Sick and mad.

The Closet on the Top Floor and Mint Juleps not Served Here really stood out for me for their style and just impeccable pace and tone.

Sadly, Frozen Voices was pretty long and just didn’t work for me, hence the 4.5 rating. Otherwise, beautiful collection that I warmly recommend and thank you to Grove for giving me this advance copy.

Perhaps the most surprising thing about this story collection is that it feels as though it could have been written today. Each story feels as alive and vital as it must have when it was first written. And despite how young Diane Oliver was when she wrote them, the tone is masterfully rendered--giving the reader a sense of deep dread and unease as they read through this collection. While the stories don't all fit together spectacularly well, I am deeply appreciative that they were collected so Diane Oliver can get the respect she deserves from readers. Her talent shines on every page, making the fact that we lost her at a young age all the more tragic.

I thoroughly enjoyed this collection of short stories as well as the introduction by Tayari Jones, and I applaud the publisher for bringing us this title posthumously.

Diane Oliver had such insight into what it means to be human. She also addressed the issue of race in a truly remarkable way. I especially enjoyed the title story about integration. The characters' emotions ring so true, and the tension keeps us turning the pages.

I also admired other stories in the collection, some more than others, but there is such wisdom here and social commentary combined with, as I mentioned above, insight into human nature. Oliver's characters quickly seem like real people.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance ARC; all opinions in this review are 100% my own.

This was an amazing read. Released posthumously, this short story collection was remarkable in capturing what it means to be human. Diane Oliver was raw in her stories and didn’t shy away from highlighting the Black experience, even with its harsh truths. I can’t wait to get this book in store and get into people’s hands, because everyone needs to read this!

“Neighbors and Other Stories" by Diane Oliver is a captivating collection of short stories that unveils the complexities of human connections through a series of rich and diverse narratives. Oliver's storytelling prowess shines as she skillfully delves into the lives of characters, each facing their own unique challenges and triumphs. The stories are a testament to the author's keen observation of human nature and her ability to craft engaging and thought-provoking tales. From poignant moments to unexpected twists, the collection offers a range of emotions that resonate with readers. "Neighbors and Other Stories" is a literary gem, showcasing Oliver's ability to capture the intricacies of everyday life, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate well-crafted short fiction.

This is a wonderful choice for Black History Month, and for any time really.
Talented African-American writer Diane Oliver's posthumous collection of short stories is a literary gem that reveals her undeniable mastery despite her early departure in 1966 at the tender age of 22. Published after her death, these stories are striking in their narrative maturity, suggesting a talent that transcends the barriers of time.
The highlight of this compilation is the captivating character development that Oliver manages to capture in each story. His protagonists, palpable and authentic, become emotional anchors that guide us through the complexities of the themes explored. In particular, the way he deals with racial integration in the 1950s and 1960s is evident in stories such as "Neighbors".
This first story immerses the reader in the concerns of a mother facing the anguish of sending her son to an all-white school, where he will be the only black child. This mother's doubts and fears resonate deeply, establishing an emotional bond that lasts throughout the collection.
Oliver, despite his short life, manages to capture the essence of what it means to be a pioneer in historic moments, exploring the loneliness that accompanies those who fight for the rights of a collective. Each story is a window into human complexity and the struggle for acceptance in an ever-changing world.
Ultimately, this collection of short stories is a tribute to Diane Oliver's innate ability to weave poignant and thoughtful narratives. Her legacy lives on through these pages, reminding us of the importance of exploring the deeper layers of the human condition."
Many thanks to NetGalley and Grove Atlantic for providing me with a digital copy of this work for review.

Ésta es una magnífica elección para celebrar Black History Month, y para cualquier momento en realidad.
La colección de cuentos póstumos de la talentosa escritora afroamericana Diane Oliver es una joya literaria que revela su innegable maestría a pesar de su partida temprana en 1966 a la corta edad de 22 años. Publicados después de su fallecimiento, estos relatos sorprenden por su madurez narrativa, sugiriendo un talento que trasciende las barreras del tiempo.
Lo más destacado de esta compilación es el cautivador desarrollo de personajes que Oliver logra plasmar en cada historia. Sus protagonistas, palpables y auténticos, se convierten en anclas emocionales que nos guían a través de las complejidades de los temas explorados. En particular, la manera en que aborda la integración racial en las décadas de los 50 y 60 se manifiesta en relatos como "Neighbors".
Esta primera historia sumerge al lector en las inquietudes de una madre enfrentando la angustia de enviar a su hijo a una escuela de blancos, donde será el único niño negro. Las dudas y temores de esta madre resuenan profundamente, estableciendo un vínculo emocional que perdura a lo largo de toda la colección.
Oliver, a pesar de su corta vida, logra capturar la esencia de lo que significa ser pionero en momentos históricos, explorando la soledad que acompaña a aquellos que luchan por los derechos de un colectivo. Cada relato es una ventana a la complejidad humana y a la lucha por la aceptación en un mundo en constante cambio.
En definitiva, esta colección de cuentos es un tributo a la habilidad innata de Diane Oliver para tejer narrativas conmovedoras y reflexivas. Su legado perdura a través de estas páginas, recordándonos la importancia de explorar las capas más profundas de la condición humana."
Muchas gracias a NetGalley y a Grove Atlantic por facilitarme una copia digital de esta obra para su reseña.

Neighbors and Other Stories is a soul-stirring collection of black perspectives amidst Jim Crow and the era of desegregation. From diaristic recollections to gripping literary narratives that walk the line of horror, Oliver's greatest strength lies in her ability to evoke an unwavering tension even in the most mundane circumstances.

''Mint Juleps Not Served Here' was a standout- the striking tonal shift in its final pages was reminiscent of Shirley Jackson's 'The Lottery'. The titular story 'Neighbors' also stood out as an insightful reimagining of a familiar narrative (familiar, at least, to those with a foundational understanding of African-American history). Rarely have we seen such an experience from the lens of a viewer- a sibling- and through this choice Oliver showcases how these cultural milestones affect far more than the chosen few set to achieve them.

All in all, an affecting selection from an incredible talent. I'd definitely recommend this book, especially to any aspiring black writers. As a young black writer in my early twenties - the same age as Diane Oliver when these stories were written - I'm both stunned and inspired by the work showcased here.

a gorgeous set of short stories discussing the lives of african american people.there are two tales discussing children and integration of schools, other tales discussing parental figures, others discussing societal racism.... all of them are exquisitely done and capture unique detail. would recommend. thanks for the arc.

4.5

This collection of posthumously published short stories has a delightful introduction by Tayari Jones. I thought if Tayari Jones rates it and I rate Tayari Jones as a storyteller then it's bound to be good. Instincts are spot on.

Quite a lot of the stories deal with race issues but by no means all. What strikes me reading this is how accurately Diane Oliver wrote human nature. Her characters are wholly believable.

Of course you'll have your favourites and I have mine. The title story, Neighbours (I'm English, forgive me the spelling) is a piece of work that feels like a story I've always wanted to read. It centres around a family whose very young son is due to attend his first day at an integrated school. He will be the first black boy to do so. Of course there is uproar on both sides of the fence but this story deals with the parents and older sister's feelings as the night wears on. It asks the question: if it is imperative that someone be first, should it be a very young boy who will suffer the most awful abuse? The story really hypes up the tension that any family going through this must have felt.

Other stories deal with families and step-families, fitting in, friendship, the civil rights movement, fractured love between all variety of people.

My absolute favourite is one of those stories that floor you at the conclusion and was published before Oliver's death. Mint Juleps Not Served Here felt like it might have been written by Shirley Jackson. Although, I confess, I almost cheered at the denouement. (Read it, you'll see what I mean).

I knocked a half star off because there was one quite long story, the style of which I didn't get on with at all. Otherwise it was a fascinating read.

Highly recommended.

Thankyou to Netgalley and Grove Press for the advance review copy.

Really loved this collection of short stories especially after finishing Out There Screaming. The short stories in this collection really run the range of slice of life to borderline Black horror and I loved every minute of it. So many of these stories left my mouth open in shock and had me re-reading just to get more. Diane really can make the mundane so eerie! Great book and can't wait to put it on my shelf

I was browsing NetGalley when I came across this novel. I was in a reading slump and was hoping to find something that kept my attention. I read the blurb for this one and was intrigued by the slight spooky description of some of the stories. Be warned that this is not a horror anthology or story collection although maybe two stories capture that vibe.
This collection of stories was written by Diane Oliver- an author I wasn’t familiar with possibly because she passed away early into her career and left behind this unfinished work. The introduction by Tayari Jones compared Miss Oliver to Toni Morrison and a few other great authors from the time period which interested me even more. I appreciated the supplemental information included in the introduction that helped paint the backdrop for the stories told. My only complaint is that the introduction spoiled a few of the stories.
As a fan of historical fiction and especially historical fiction focusing on POC’s I found so many of the stories relatable. As a black woman born and raised in the Deep South I was able to see the similarities of some of my ancestors in the characters. There are so many examples of the everyday plight of these people in each story and they showcase different walks of life. I found myself relating to a very similar situation as the main character in Closet on the Top Floor. This story is not horror, but there is a haunting feel to it, definitely more of a psychological story. Speaking of horror, No Mint Juleps Served Here was great. Not what I expected at all but 10/10 eerie story.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. There were a few stories that didn’t grab me but the ones that did definitely out way that. If you like collections or anthologies- especially focusing on specific time periods I would say give this one a go!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!