Living by the word

About the Category

Living by the word by Alice Walker sits within the tradition of short stories that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1988 in International, it engages with the human condition in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Its aggregate editorial score of 43/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. Readers coming to Living by the word for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of the human condition is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Living by the word reflects Alice Walker's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with International's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.

About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.