“Writing in the lyrical, revelatory mode of Stuart Dybek, Pearce illuminates the soul of Chicago and the perplexities of human nature with exquisite sensitivity, authenticity, and artistry.”
—Booklist starred review, Donna Seaman

“With deep empathy and granular detail, these stories take the measure of a city on the make.”
—Kirkus Reviews starred review

“Pearce’s prose exudes a solid sense of place, but the author’s real power lies in his ability to trace the emotional toll of his characters’ seemingly small but consequential decisions. It’s an accomplished and assured first outing.”
—Publishers Weekly

“Barry Pearce’s wonderful “The Plan of Chicago: A City in Stories” is a love letter to a recognizable Chicago, full of snowbound dibs and Irish bars, hidden storefronts and class conflicts across neighborhoods. Don’t sleep on this one.”
—The Chicago Tribune, Christopher Borrelli

“Barry Pearce’s stories capture the denizens who define this city…The modern-day Algren.”
—Chicago Magazine, Thomas Connors