Tenth of December

In 'Tenth of December', George Saunders weaves together a collection of poignant and imaginative stories that explore the complexities of human experience. The narratives dive into themes of morality, empathy, and the choices that define us, often set against surreal backdrops. Each tale intricately reveals the struggles of characters who grapple with their identities and moral dilemmas in a seemingly indifferent world. With a unique blend of humor and heartbreak, Saunders invites readers to reflect on the beauty and fragility of life. This compelling collection leaves you questioning the nature of compassion and the deep connections that bind us all.

By George Saunders

Published: 2013

""You can’t offer people too much kindness, and it never gets you anything in return.""

Tenth of DecemberBook binding

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

A collection of stories which includes "Home," a wryly whimsical account of a soldier's return from war; "Victory lap," a tale about an inventive abduction attempt, and the title story, in which a suicidal cancer patient saves the life of a young misfit.

Mike & Casey Show Logo

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from Tenth of December

About the Author

G

George Saunders

George Saunders is an acclaimed American author known for his distinctive blend of surrealism, dark humor, and poignant social commentary. He has gained widespread recognition for his short story collections, including "Tenth of December," which was a finalist for the National Book Award, and "The Tenth of December: Stories," which won the 2014 inaugural George W. Hunt Prize for Excellence in Literature. His novel "Lincoln in the Bardo" won the 2017 Man Booker Prize, solidifying his reputation as a master storyteller. Saunders’ writing is characterized by its innovative narrative structures and exploration of the human condition, often reflecting themes of kindness, compassion, and the absurdity of modern life.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
George Saunders
Published
January 2013
Publisher
N/A
ISBN
0812993802
Language
English
Pages
N/A
Genres
Short StoriesContemporary FictionLiterature

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

Fingerprints of the GodsBook binding

Fingerprints of the Gods

Graham Hancock

Industrial-Strength DenialBook binding

Industrial-Strength Denial

Barbara Freese

The Return of the RagpickerBook binding

The Return of the Ragpicker

Og Mandino

The Stone SkyBook binding

The Stone Sky

N. K. Jemisin

You're Not Enough (And That's Okay)Book binding

You're Not Enough (And That's Okay)

Allie Beth Stuckey

With or Without YouBook binding

With or Without You

Domenica Ruta

The Front NineBook binding

The Front Nine

Mike Vardy

No One Belongs Here More Than YouBook binding

No One Belongs Here More Than You

Miranda July

Can't and Won'tBook binding

Can't and Won't

Lydia Davis

CarbonelBook binding

Carbonel

Barbara Sleigh

BeowulfBook binding

Beowulf

Seamus Heaney

The Complete Life's Little Instruction BookBook binding

The Complete Life's Little Instruction Book

H. Jackson Brown Jr.

The Atlas SixBook binding

The Atlas Six

Olivie Blake

Triumphs of ExperienceBook binding

Triumphs of Experience

George E. Vaillant

Someone Who Will Love You in All Your Damaged GloryBook binding

Someone Who Will Love You in All Your Damaged Glory

Raphael Bob-Waksberg

Friday BlackBook binding

Friday Black

Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah

Straw DogsBook binding

Straw Dogs

John Gray

Hitler: A BiographyBook binding

Hitler: A Biography

Ian Kershaw

The Columbian ExchangeBook binding

The Columbian Exchange

Alfred W. Crosby

Raising Boys in the 21st CenturyBook binding

Raising Boys in the 21st Century

Steve Biddulph

The Last WordBook binding

The Last Word

Thomas Nagel

Greedy Bastards: One City's Texas-Size Struggle to Avoid a Financial CrisisBook binding

Greedy Bastards: One City's Texas-Size Struggle to Avoid a Financial Crisis

Sheryl Sculley

ZagBook binding

Zag

Marty Neumeier

Axel Vervoordt: Portraits of InteriorsBook binding

Axel Vervoordt: Portraits of Interiors

The Book of VirtuesBook binding

The Book of Virtues

William J. Bennett

The Nature of the BeastBook binding

The Nature of the Beast

David Anderson

RemixBook binding

Remix

Lawrence Lessig

The Fantasy BondBook binding

The Fantasy Bond

Robert W. Firestone, Richard Seiden, Joyce Catlett

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Book Collections you might like →

Meghan Markle's Book Recommendations

Meghan Markle's Book Recommendations

Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, is an American actress, humanitarian, and author known for her role as Rachel Zane on the television series "Suits." After marrying Prince Harry in 2018, she became a prominent figure in the British royal family and an advocate for social justice and women's rights. In 2021, she published her first children's book, "The Bench," which explores the bond between fathers and sons through a mother's eyes. Markle's literary work reflects her commitment to storytelling and her passion for fostering empathy and understanding. Beyond literature, she co-founded the Archewell Foundation with Prince Harry to promote compassion and well-being globally.

View Collection
Jordan Hughes's Book Recommendations

Jordan Hughes's Book Recommendations

Jordan Hughes is a celebrated author known for their compelling narratives and richly developed characters. Their debut novel, "Echoes of Tomorrow," won the prestigious Man Booker Prize, marking a significant milestone in contemporary fiction. Hughes's work often explores themes of identity, resilience, and the human condition, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. In addition to their novels, Hughes has contributed thought-provoking essays to major literary journals, further solidifying their influence in the literary world. Their innovative storytelling continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

View Collection
Haruki Murakami's Book Recommendations

Haruki Murakami's Book Recommendations

Haruki Murakami is an internationally acclaimed Japanese author known for his surreal, magical realist style, blending elements of reality with the fantastical in his novels. His works, such as "Norwegian Wood," "Kafka on the Shore," and "1Q84," have captivated readers with their dreamlike narratives, introspective characters, and deep exploration of existential themes. Murakami's unique voice often explores loneliness, isolation, and the complexities of human nature. His use of metaphors and symbolism has earned him a dedicated global following, and his books have been translated into dozens of languages. A reclusive figure, Murakami avoids public appearances and prefers to let his work speak for itself, although he occasionally writes essays and non-fiction on topics such as running, jazz, and literature. Murakami has been a strong contender for the Nobel Prize in Literature for years, and his influence on contemporary fiction is undeniable. Beyond his writing, Murakami is also an avid marathon runner and music enthusiast, elements that often appear in his narratives.

View Collection
Caterina Fake's Book Recommendations

Caterina Fake's Book Recommendations

Caterina Fake is an American entrepreneur and investor, best known for co-founding Flickr, one of the first photo-sharing platforms that helped define social media and web 2.0. After the success of Flickr, Fake went on to co-found Hunch, a recommendation engine that was later acquired by eBay. She is a partner at Yes VC, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups, with a focus on companies that foster human connection and creativity. Fake is also an advocate for ethical technology and often speaks about the importance of designing products that prioritize user well-being. Her contributions to tech and her insights on the intersection of technology and culture have made her a respected leader in the industry.

View Collection
Joe Rogan's Book Recommendations

Joe Rogan's Book Recommendations

Joe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.

View Collection
David Sedaris's Book Recommendations

David Sedaris's Book Recommendations

David Sedaris is an American humorist, author, and radio contributor, known for his witty and satirical essays that explore themes of family, culture, and personal idiosyncrasies. Sedaris rose to fame with his collections Me Talk Pretty One Day and Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, which have earned him a devoted following for his blend of humor and keen observation. His work is often autobiographical, capturing the quirks of everyday life in a humorous light. Sedaris regularly contributes to The New Yorker and NPR’s This American Life, and his live readings are popular events that showcase his comedic timing and unique storytelling style.

View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

View Collection
Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations

Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations

Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.

View Collection
Anderson Cooper's Book Recommendations

Anderson Cooper's Book Recommendations

Anderson Cooper is an esteemed American journalist and television personality, best known for anchoring "Anderson Cooper 360°" on CNN. He has gained widespread recognition for his incisive reporting on major global events, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his work. Cooper is also an accomplished author, having penned the best-selling memoir "Dispatches from the Edge," which chronicles his experiences covering some of the world's most perilous conflicts and disasters. His literary contributions extend to "The Rainbow Comes and Goes," a poignant dialogue with his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, that explores themes of family and resilience. Through his work in both journalism and literature, Cooper has made a significant impact on contemporary media and storytelling.

View Collection
Diana Kimball's Book Recommendations

Diana Kimball's Book Recommendations

Diana Kimball is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of the mentorship platform Mentor List, which connects people looking for guidance with industry leaders. Kimball is a champion for personal and professional development, emphasizing the power of mentorship to foster growth and build meaningful connections. She has worked in product management and marketing roles at companies like Twitter and Microsoft, bringing her unique insights into tech and community building. Kimball also speaks and writes on topics related to leadership, career development, and the importance of empathy in the workplace. Her work has helped people build stronger networks and pursue their goals with purpose.

View Collection
Meryl Streep's Book Recommendations

Meryl Streep's Book Recommendations

Meryl Streep, an acclaimed American actress, has left an indelible mark on the world of film and theater with her extraordinary talent and versatility. She holds the record for the most Academy Award nominations of any actor, with a staggering 21 nominations and three wins. Streep's performances in films such as "Sophie's Choice," "The Devil Wears Prada," and "The Iron Lady" have garnered critical acclaim and solidified her reputation as one of the greatest actresses of her generation. Beyond her acting prowess, she has contributed to literature by narrating audiobooks, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver. Streep's dedication to her craft and her ability to bring complex characters to life continue to inspire both audiences and fellow artists.

View Collection
Bob Iger's Book Recommendations

Bob Iger's Book Recommendations

Bob Iger is an American business executive and the former CEO of The Walt Disney Company, where he led the company through a period of unprecedented growth and innovation. Under Iger’s leadership, Disney acquired major brands like Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox, expanding its portfolio and creating one of the largest entertainment empires in the world. Iger is also credited with launching the Disney+ streaming service, which has become a key player in the digital entertainment space. His leadership style is known for its focus on creativity, long-term vision, and strategic acquisitions. Iger’s tenure at Disney solidified his reputation as one of the most successful and influential media executives.

View Collection
Richard Branson's Book Recommendations

Richard Branson's Book Recommendations

Richard Branson is a British entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin Group, which operates in sectors ranging from airlines to space travel. Branson’s entrepreneurial journey began in the 1970s with Virgin Records, and he has since built one of the most recognized brands in the world. Known for his adventurous spirit and willingness to take risks, Branson has pursued innovative ventures like Virgin Galactic, aiming to pioneer commercial space tourism. He is also a philanthropist, focusing on environmental sustainability and global health issues. Branson's bold and unconventional approach to business has made him a global icon of entrepreneurship.

View Collection
Jessica Biel's Book Recommendations

Jessica Biel's Book Recommendations

Jessica Biel is an accomplished actress and producer, best known for her work in television and film rather than literature. Rising to fame with her role as Mary Camden on the long-running family drama "7th Heaven," Biel has since demonstrated her versatility in a variety of genres, from romantic comedies to intense thrillers. Her work behind the scenes as a producer, particularly on the critically acclaimed series "The Sinner," has solidified her status as a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry. Although not a literary figure, Biel's contributions to storytelling through her acting and production efforts have earned her numerous accolades and a respected place in Hollywood. Her dedication to her craft continues to influence and inspire both audiences and aspiring entertainers alike.

View Collection
Emily Ratajkowski's Book Recommendations

Emily Ratajkowski's Book Recommendations

Emily Ratajkowski is a renowned model, actress, and author, who gained prominence in the entertainment industry through her work in fashion and film. She made a significant literary contribution with her debut book, "My Body," published in 2021, which explores themes of feminism, sexuality, and empowerment. The book received critical acclaim for its insightful and candid examination of her experiences in the public eye. Ratajkowski's writing has been praised for its depth and honesty, shedding light on the complexities of body politics and personal agency. Beyond her literary endeavors, she continues to use her platform to advocate for women's rights and social justice.

View Collection
Claire Diaz-Ortiz's Book Recommendations

Claire Diaz-Ortiz's Book Recommendations

Claire Diaz-Ortiz is a prominent author, speaker, and technology innovator known for her influential work at Twitter, where she played a key role in promoting the platform's use for social good. She has authored several notable books, including "Twitter for Good" and "Design Your Day," which offer insights into leveraging social media for activism and optimizing personal productivity, respectively. Diaz-Ortiz is also recognized for her contributions to leadership literature, particularly through her co-authored works with Ken Blanchard. She is a sought-after keynote speaker and has been featured in major media outlets for her expertise in technology and social impact. Beyond her writing, she is committed to philanthropic endeavors and mentoring women entrepreneurs globally.

View Collection
Emma Watson's Book Recommendations

Emma Watson's Book Recommendations

Emma Watson is a British actress and activist best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, which brought J.K. Rowling's beloved books to life. Beyond her acting career, Watson has made significant contributions to literature by promoting gender equality and women's rights through her work with the United Nations, including the HeForShe campaign. She has also curated and shared book recommendations that highlight feminist literature and diverse voices. Watson graduated from Brown University with a degree in English literature, further emphasizing her dedication to the literary world. Her advocacy and influence have made her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and literary communities.

View Collection
Guy Proops's Book Recommendations

Guy Proops's Book Recommendations

Guy Proops is a celebrated British author known for his engaging contemporary fiction and sharp wit. He gained widespread recognition with his debut novel, "The Timeworn Traveler," which explored themes of nostalgia and modernity, earning critical acclaim. Proops has since published several bestsellers that delve into human relationships and societal norms, solidifying his reputation as a keen observer of modern life. His works have been translated into multiple languages, reaching a global audience and receiving numerous literary awards. In addition to his novels, Proops is an active contributor to literary magazines and journals, where he continues to influence and inspire new writers.

View Collection
Gretchen Rubin's Book Recommendations

Gretchen Rubin's Book Recommendations

Gretchen Rubin is a bestselling author and happiness expert, best known for her books The Happiness Project and Better Than Before. She explores the science of habits, happiness, and human behavior, helping readers improve their everyday lives. Gretchen’s popular podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, offers practical advice and personal anecdotes to cultivate a more joyful and meaningful life. Her work emphasizes small, daily changes that can lead to long-term well-being. She continues to be a sought-after speaker on topics of happiness and habit formation.

View Collection
Frank Chimero's Book Recommendations

Frank Chimero's Book Recommendations

Frank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.

View Collection

"You can’t offer people too much kindness, and it never gets you anything in return."

Tenth of December

By George Saunders

Frequently Asked Questions