McManus burrows deep under the skins of his rough, cast-out characters and emerges with stories that are bold and ingenious.
The New York Times
A phenomenal talent blazing up suddenly on the horizon. Precise, brilliant language that evokes without ever having to explain.
Elle
Achingly visceral... a masterpiece.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This is McManus's genius: depravity, tender and effortless.
The Oxford American
John McManus' nervewracking prose has great pitch and daring. He's a wildly talented writer.
Joy Williams