The characters in Cover Before Striking - ranging from pyromaniacs to Olympic athletes to Catholic priests-are all pushing their lives to new levels of intensity, danger, or passion as they test their limits and those of the world. A new short story collection from award-winning author Priscila Uppal. In 13 strong and distinctive pieces, Uppal appears to regard the short story as a superbly elastic form and an inviting opportunity to explore familiar human circumstances from fresh angles.