Whites: stories (1st ed.)

Whether they are Americans, Brits, or a stubborn and suicidally moral Dutchman, Norman Rush's whites are not sure why they are in Botswana.

Their uncertainty makes them do odd things. Driven half-mad by the barking of his neighbor's dogs, Carl dips timidly into native witchcraftonly to jump back out at the worst possible moment.

Ione briskly pursues a career as a "seducer" ("A seductress was merely someone who was seductive and who might or might not be awarded a victory.

But a seducer was a professional"), while her dentist husband fends off the generous advances of an African cook.

Funny, sad, and deeply knowing, polished throughout to a diamond glitter, Whites is a magnificent collection of stories.