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Side Jobs summary
Brief summary
Side Jobs by Jim Butcher is a collection of short stories set in the world of the Dresden Files. Filled with action, magic, and witty humor, it offers glimpses into the life of Harry Dresden, a wizard detective.
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Side Jobs
Summary of key ideas
A Diverse Collection of Stories
Side Jobs by Jim Butcher is a compilation of diverse short stories revolving around Harry Dresden, the professional wizard from Butcher’s popular urban fantasy series, The Dresden Files. As the title suggests, these stories cover the events of Dresden's life that come in between his main series novels, acting as “side jobs” that didn't quite make it into the primary storyline.
The book starts off with the short story "Restoration of Faith," providing readers with a compelling backstory of Harry when he was still an aspiring private investigator who primarily handled supernatural activities. Moving on, the affectionately named "Vignette" relates the issues witches can have with modern housekeeping appliances – a fun and light-hearted piece that offsets the more serious tales.
Non-stop Action and Intense Plot-twists
In "Something Borrowed," Dresden helps a couple avoid a supernatural plot to ruin their wedding day, defending their happy celebration from aggressive demonic forces. Conversely, in "It's My Birthday Too," Harry and the vampire Thomas Raith confront deadly threats during a tumultuous birthday celebration. These stories are filled with non-stop action and intense plot twists that will keep the readers hooked.
Love Hurts features the return of several well-loved secondary characters and delves into the complexities of love and relationships within the backdrop of dangerous magical conspiracies. Drawing a different angle, "Day Off" explores a day in the life of Harry where nothing goes as planned, somewhat in a lighter tone, allowing readers to take a breath from the high-octane series' pace.
Depth and Character Development
In the following stories, "Backup" and "The Warrior," the focus shifts away from Dresden to shine a light on his vampire half-brother Thomas and on Molly, Harry's apprentice. These narratives offer deeper insights into their characters and feelings, proving to be highlights not just for the action but for character development as well.
Exploring different aspects of magic, the concluding tales "Aftermath" and "Harry's Day Off" show the aftermath of tumultuous events and the trials of Dresden’s intellectual prowess. Even in tales that at first glance seem like standalone adventures, Butcher never forgets to incorporate elements of his larger world-building, adding depth and significance to each story.
The Final Takeaway from Side Jobs
On closing notes, Side Jobs provides a comprehensive view of Harry Dresden's character and the world he inhabits. Whether Harry is fighting epic battles or simply trying to relax and celebrate a birthday, each tale in this collection contributes to the larger narrative in a meaningful way. All in all, these 'side jobs' offer an engrossing and multifaceted portrayal of Butcher's larger-than-life hero, making this anthology a worthy read for series and new readers alike.
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What is Side Jobs about?
Side Jobs is a collection of short stories from the Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher. These tales offer a glimpse into the life of Harry Dresden, a wizard and private investigator, as he takes on various supernatural cases and navigates the dangerous world of magic. From battling dark forces to solving mysteries, each story provides an entertaining and thrilling adventure for fans of urban fantasy.
Side Jobs Review
Side Jobs (2010) by Jim Butcher is a collection of short stories set in the world of Harry Dresden, a professional wizard and private investigator. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Featuring a mix of action, mystery, and humor, it offers a diverse range of thrilling and captivating stories.
- Each story provides new insights into Dresden's character and expands on the existing storyline, making it a treat for fans of the series.
- The book also includes exclusive previously unpublished stories, making it a must-read for both new readers and longtime fans of the Dresden Files.
Who should read Side Jobs?
- Readers who enjoy urban fantasy and supernatural mysteries
- Fans of Jim Butcher's popular Dresden Files series
- Those who want to delve deeper into the adventures of Harry Dresden and his world
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Side Jobs FAQs
What is the main message of Side Jobs?
The main message of Side Jobs is that life as a wizard is full of danger and unexpected challenges.
How long does it take to read Side Jobs?
The reading time for Side Jobs varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Side Jobs a good book? Is it worth reading?
Side Jobs is worth reading for fans of the Dresden Files series. It offers exciting stories and a deeper look into the world of Harry Dresden.
Who is the author of Side Jobs?
Jim Butcher is the author of Side Jobs.
How many chapters are in Side Jobs?
There are multiple stories in Side Jobs, each with their own chapter. Here are some of the notable ones:
- A Fistful of Warlocks
- Restoration of Faith
- It's My Birthday Too
How many pages are in Side Jobs?
Side Jobs contains 432 pages.
When was Side Jobs published?
Side Jobs was published in 2010.
What to read after Side Jobs?
If you're wondering what to read next after Side Jobs, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- A Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller
- The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
- Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder
- Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys, Judith L. Raiskin
- Just After Sunset by Stephen King
- Whereabouts by Jhumpa Lahiri
- Hearts in Darkness by Laura Kaye
- Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nunzio DeFilippis
- Side Jobs by Jim Butcher