Someone Like You is a collection of short stories for adult readers. The writing standard was high compared to his children's books. The stories are short and concise with no room for development or exploration of characters that could have otherwise thrived on a novel or full-length story. Dahl uses this book to study human behavior. He succeeds in others and fails in others.
Taste
The first story of the collection, tells the story of a man who places a bet of the highest risk with an unprecedented opponent. The story is tense and full of marvel. Dahl offers an ending full of twists. The plot is a bit similar to another story in the collection.
My Lady Love, My Dove
A couple, expecting guests at their home, hide a microphone in the room designated for the guests. After the guests arrive, things begin to unfold unexpectedly.
The Soldier
A soldier returns from war, fully traumatized by the things he’s experienced. The story explores his road to recovery. It’s indeed captivating and unsettling as Dahl offers a chilling end that fits the themes that are explored in this mind battling tale.
Man From the South
This story is a bit similar to Taste plot-wise. It’s also a story about placing a bet that could potentially cause great harm or disaster. The story is phenomenal and genius. It explores man’s will to tackle unimaginable odds and win or lose.
Skin
Years ago, a gentleman got a tattoo on his back. The artist who did the work is now well renowned and respected. People begin to exploit the artist using the tattoo, which carries heavy consequences. In this story also, Dahl offers a great ending to a story that started a little bleak.
The Great Automatic Grammatizator
Perhaps one of the most daring stories in this collection, the story is about a machine that produces novels automatically. This invention has the potential to put all writers out of a job. The machine is abused by greedy individuals who want to make the most money out of it without regard to artistic integrity. Dahl offers a commentary on the world of publishing and the negative effects' capitalism has had on it. Dahl offers a unique ending to this rather unique plot.
