Uncommon Type: Some Stories by Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks’ first published work of fiction, Uncommon Type: Some Stories, is an ambitious collection of 17 short stories featuring vignettes both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Hanks’ writing draws on his own personal experiences to create vivid tales that evoke a plethora of emotions. Whether it be the simple joy of reminiscing on days gone by or the sobering realization that time passes too quickly, Hanks expertly captures a broad range of feeling while touching on universally relatable topics.

Hanks’ writing style is both straightforward and immediately engaging. Each story is concise yet reflective, providing just enough detail to allow readers to project their own interpretations onto the characters and plot. One underlying theme throughout the stories is the effects of technology on human life, a topic close to Hanks’ heart. “Alan Bean Plus Four” follows the journey of four retired astronauts as they take one final trip into space. Heavy with poetic language and full of significance for many of its characters, the story paints a vivid picture of aging and its effects on life’s most basic joys.

While some stories feature whimsical elements and overt comedy, other stories tackle difficult topics such as mortality and finding true happiness. “The Past Is Important To Us” follows a young woman as she is forced to come to terms with the fact that she may not have time to come to terms with a painful incident from her past. “These are the Meditations of My Heart” is a heartbreaking story of love and loss, a powerful journey through the spectrum of human emotion.

Though melancholic stories make up the bulk of the collection, there are a few stories that offer more lighthearted themes. “Christmas Eve 1953” culminates in a joyous scene of family unity, the perfect encapsulation of the power of Hanks’ storytelling capabilities. “Deeper Than Yesterday” is an adventure story rooted in the simple joys of life, a simple tale of a man and his love for the sea.

Ultimately, Hanks’ debut into the world of fiction is a successful one. His common touch and knack for storytelling transports the reader to a variety of wonderful settings, all of which ultimately lead back to the same theme: life is fleeting, but it is important to make something of it. Whether it be through acts of selflessness or simply by appreciating the present, Hanks champions small acts of humanity through intricate, often hauntingly beautiful stories that linger long after the final page is read.