Sara Batkie’s collection Better Times tells stories of characters grappling with various absences in their lives, be it a father, a partner, or a part of themselves. These stories explore the aftermath of loss and the resilience of communities in the face of adversity.
One tale, “Laika,” follows a narrator reflecting on past connections with Babette, a woman who claims a divine pregnancy, and Laika, the pioneering space dog. It challenges the idea of tragedy in Laika’s sacrifice, suggesting that even in death, there can be a sense of purpose and belonging.
Batkie’s storytelling often infuses humor into seemingly unconventional plots, like in “Foreigners,” where a single woman discovers her neighbors are Russian spies. Through these narratives, she delves into themes of isolation, fractured relationships, and the quest for understanding amidst chaos.
In other speculative stories like “Cleavage,” “North Country, Early Morning,” and “Lookaftering,” Batkie explores fantastical elements to examine the complexities of human connection and identity in extraordinary circumstances. These tales offer fresh perspectives on familiar struggles, like body image, survival, and motherhood.
In the final story, “Those Who Left and Those Who Stayed,” characters cope with an environmental disaster without explicit mention of climate change. They adapt to a new reality on a drifting ice sheet, embodying the resilience and adaptability needed to navigate an uncertain future.
Throughout the collection, characters confront present challenges without nostalgia for bygone eras or unrealistic hopes for what’s to come. The concept of “better times” remains elusive, prompting reflection on the transient nature of joy and the enduring strength found in facing adversity head-on.
