[fantasyfan]

I think that a very good opener is "First Confession". A few interesting points are that the characters are based on members of his own family--giving this tale an autobiographical edge. It uses a dual narrative perspective; the narrator is a child--but a child whose memories and experiences are filtered through the mind of the adult who is aware that aspects of this particular event had the potential to have been far more serious in their consequences than seems apparent. It is, to an extent. a story of persecution; a persecution on a series of levels.

Note too, the great skill of O'Connor's use of "'significant detail'"--that is his skill in selecting the detail that will convey a great deal in terms of character and atmosphere." {Augustine Martin}

As a side note, if you wish to experience the tragic vision of O'Connor, try "Guests of the Nation"--which is not in our selection but is easy to find. It is based on his experiences in the IRA.

Finally, I hope that others who read the stories of this fine writer will share my admiration for his deep compassion for ordinary people--those whom he called his "hidden audience"--and his wonderful artistry in telling their tales.