Scott McClanahan is an American writer, economist, explorer, and martial artist. He lives in Beckley, West Virginia and is the author of eight books. His book, The Sarah Book, was featured in Rolling Stone, Village Voice, and Playboy. McClanahan is also a co-founder of Holler Presents, a West Virginia-based production and small press company.
Original publication
2026
Average rating
—
Total reads logged
0
Opening Excerpt
From the storyWe were supposed to go to Rainelle for my birthday. It had been raining for a whole week, and Juliet said, “Jesus Christ! That rain doesn’t sound right.” I kept telling her everything was going to be okay. We sat in the doctor’s office, where my daughter was undergoing an evaluation for autism.
Story Vibe & Style Profile
Emotional Weight
4.1 / 5
Poignant
Narrative Pacing
1.9 / 5
Contemplative
Literary Style
1.4 / 5
Direct & Minimalist
Speculative / Reality
1.7 / 5
Realistic / Mimetic
Appearances
The Paris Review
The Paris Review No. 257 — Fall 2026 · Sep 1, 2026
About the Author
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