Review: Louise Erdrich's Latest Collection 'Python's Kiss' Praised

The acclaimed Minneapolis author's new book features 13 stories, some previously published, that explore diverse genres and settings.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:17pm

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An abstract composition of stark black silhouette shapes in angular, overlapping patterns against a vibrant red background, conveying the conceptual range of Louise Erdrich's latest work of fiction.Erdrich's new short story collection showcases her creative versatility with diverse genres and narrative styles.Minneapolis Today

Acclaimed Minneapolis author Louise Erdrich has released a new collection of 13 short stories titled 'Python's Kiss.' The book includes 9 previously published tales that 'flirt with genres and settings we might not expect Erdrich to explore,' according to a review in The Minnesota Star Tribune. The collection is Erdrich's latest work of fiction following her previous acclaimed novels.

Why it matters

Louise Erdrich is a highly respected and award-winning author known for her novels that explore Native American life and themes. This new short story collection represents an expansion of her creative range as she ventures into different genres and narrative styles beyond her signature novels.

The details

The 13 stories in 'Python's Kiss' include 9 that have been previously published, with the remaining 4 being new works. The review notes that the stories 'flirt with genres and settings we might not expect Erdrich to explore,' suggesting the collection showcases the author's versatility as a writer.

  • The book 'Python's Kiss' was released on April 1, 2026.

The players

Louise Erdrich

An acclaimed Minneapolis-based author known for her novels exploring Native American life and themes. 'Python's Kiss' is her latest work of fiction.

The Minnesota Star Tribune

The newspaper that published the review of Erdrich's new short story collection.

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What they’re saying

“What's better than a new tale from Minneapolis writer Louise Erdrich? How about 13 new tales?”

— Chris Hewitt, Reviewer

The takeaway

This new short story collection from acclaimed author Louise Erdrich demonstrates her creative versatility as she ventures beyond her signature novels into diverse genres and narrative styles, further cementing her status as one of the most respected contemporary American writers.