Powerful ideas from top nonfiction
Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.
Get started for free
Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Tenth of December summary
Brief summary
Tenth of December is a compelling collection of short stories by George Saunders. It explores the lives of ordinary people in extraordinary situations, delving into themes of morality, empathy, and the search for connection.
Topics
Table of Contents
Tenth of December
Summary of key ideas
Exploring the Human Condition
In Tenth of December by George Saunders, we are presented with a collection of stories that delve deep into the human condition. The first story, Victory Lap, introduces us to a young girl, Alison, who is almost abducted by a stranger. The story explores the theme of moral courage and the choices we make in the face of danger. The second story, Sticks, is about a man, David, who is struggling with his self-worth and his relationship with his family. He finds solace in a group of boys who are playing a game in the woods.
In Puppy, we meet Callie, a young girl who is trying to save a sick dog from her abusive father. This story highlights the theme of empathy and the lengths we go to help those in need. The title story, Tenth of December, is about a man, Don, who is terminally ill and decides to end his life in the woods. However, he encounters a boy, Robin, who is in danger, and Don's decision takes a different turn.
Exploring the Darker Side of Humanity
In Escape from Spiderhead, Saunders takes us to a futuristic prison where inmates are used as test subjects for new drugs. The story raises ethical questions about the use of science and technology in controlling human behavior. In Exhortation, we are introduced to a man, Kyle, who is struggling with his addiction to a virtual reality game. The story explores the theme of escapism and the dangers of losing touch with reality.
Al Roosten is about a man who is preparing for a charity auction where he will be humiliated. The story delves into the theme of self-worth and the lengths people go to gain validation from others. In The Semplica-Girl Diaries, we are presented with a dystopian society where people display living, impoverished women as lawn ornaments. The story critiques the materialistic nature of society and the lengths people go to display their wealth.
Hope and Redemption
In Home, we meet a war veteran, Roger, who is struggling to adjust to civilian life. The story explores the theme of post-traumatic stress disorder and the difficulties veterans face when returning home. In My Chivalric Fiasco, we follow a man, Roger, who is trying to save a woman from a dragon in a virtual reality game. The story is a humorous take on the theme of chivalry and the unrealistic expectations placed on men.
In Tenth of December, Saunders presents us with a mix of dark and hopeful stories, all of which explore the complexities of human nature. The characters in these stories are flawed, struggling, and often make questionable decisions. However, they also display resilience, empathy, and the capacity for change. Ultimately, Tenth of December is a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be human.
How do we create content on this page?
More knowledge in less time
Read or listen
Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.
Find your next read
Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.
Shortcasts New
We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.
What is Tenth of December about?
Tenth of December is a collection of short stories that delves into the complexities of human nature and the struggles we face in our everyday lives. With a blend of dark humor and poignant moments, George Saunders explores themes such as morality, empathy, and the pursuit of happiness. Each story offers a unique perspective and challenges the reader to reflect on their own beliefs and values.
Tenth of December Review
Tenth of December (2013) by George Saunders is a collection of short stories that explores the complexities of human nature and the power of empathy. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Its thought-provoking storytelling delves into the depths of human emotions, challenging readers to reflect on their own beliefs and values.
- The book tackles a wide range of topics, from the struggles of ordinary people to the consequences of society's obsession with technology, offering a diverse and compelling reading experience.
- With its witty and poignant prose, the book captures the essence of the human experience, making it a truly unique and unforgettable read.
Who should read Tenth of December?
- Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and experimental fiction
- Those looking for stories that explore the complexities of human behavior and relationships
- People interested in dark humor and satirical commentary on modern society
Categories with Tenth of December
Book summaries like Tenth of December
People ❤️ Blinkist
Sven O.
It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.
Thi Viet Quynh N.
Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.
Jonathan A.
Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.
Renee D.
Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.
People also liked these summaries
4.8 Stars
Average ratings on iOS and Google Play
43 Million
Downloads on all platforms
10+ years
Experience igniting personal growth
Tenth of December FAQs
What is the main message of Tenth of December?
The main message of Tenth of December is a profound exploration of human connection, empathy, and the power of compassion.
How long does it take to read Tenth of December?
The reading time for Tenth of December varies depending on the reader, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Tenth of December a good book? Is it worth reading?
Tenth of December is a remarkable book worth every minute spent on it. Its captivating stories will leave you contemplating the complexities of life and human nature.
Who is the author of Tenth of December?
The author of Tenth of December is George Saunders.
What to read after Tenth of December?
If you're wondering what to read next after Tenth of December, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Where Good Ideas Come From by Steven Johnson
- The Art Of Non-Conformity by Chris Guillebeau
- A Whole New Mind by Daniel H. Pink
- Theory U by C. Otto Scharmer
- The Design of Everyday Things by Donald A. Norman
- The Innovator ’s Dilemma# by Clayton M. Christensen
- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
- Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
- Think Like a Freak by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
- The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda