Follow Me Home: Short Stories

Looking back is the motif that runs through these generally impressive stories from Hoffman, author of 10 novels (Furors Die) and two previous story collections (By Land, by Sea). Set in both the Appalachian region of Virginia and the Chesapeake Bay area, the 11 tales here are hallmarked by delicate-and often elegiac or lyrical-prose that presents the perspective of older characters facing their pasts with a mix of bitterness, fortitude and a fondness for the few sweet moments in life. ``Dancer'' is among the best of the lot, serving up the dreamy memories and musical flights of fancy of an older woman who frequently vanishes into the past. ``Sweet Armageddon'' offers a different spin on the same theme, articulating the anger of a preacher who wishes for release as he and his wife continue their struggle against poverty. In contrast, ``Night Sport'' departs from formula with an account of an embittered Vietnam vet who makes sure his legacy is passed on to a would-be thief and prankster. Hoffman stumbles occasionally, particularly in several lackluster tales about hunting, but, even so, the collection will delight admirers of finely crafted stories, particularly those enamored of distinctive, well-evoked settings. (Sept.)