"It is totally impossible when talking about Rusty Barnes' stunning collection of short short stories to avoid some kind of "small is beautiful" or "great things come in small packages" cliche. Because with Breaking it Down, not only are the stories very short, but the actual book is vertically-challenged, reaching only half the height of a standard paperback. ...Each story packs such a punch that it is not possible to read even two in one setting; each requires a pause, a laying down of the diminutive book, and contemplation. While you may only spend a short time with each of Barnes' characters, they stay with you for a long while afterwards, which must be the ultimate test of a great short story collection." The Short Review

"Barnes's writing shows a true understanding of the human condition." Boston Area Small Press and Poetry Scene