Reading James Salter. Where to start?

Chris P

Likes metaphors mixed, not stirred
Kind Benefactor
Super Member
Registered
Joined
Nov 4, 2009
Messages
22,611
Reaction score
7,289
Location
Wash., D.C. area
I just read George Saunders' short article in this years' Pushcart Prize (excerpt from the original Southampton Review here) about author James Salter, who I have never heard of. I'm interested in checking out his stuff, but I remember the poor first impressions I got of other authors by starting off with their throw-away loser books. So for Salter, which ones did you most enjoy, and why?

Sell me on your favorite Salter!
 

Chris P

Likes metaphors mixed, not stirred
Kind Benefactor
Super Member
Registered
Joined
Nov 4, 2009
Messages
22,611
Reaction score
7,289
Location
Wash., D.C. area
I took a chance and read A Sport and A Pastime. It was lovely! Nifty wordplays without being overly purple, an interesting scenario, and although there isn't much action it was a brain-tickling and pleasantly challenging read. Just a touch of steam, too. I won't say more to avoid spoilers, because I think one of the best things about the book is a tricky trick he pulls off better than many of the "typical" examples of the trick.