The best debut novelist you've never heard of
Ello--sorry for the sabbatical. Didja miss me?
Today's confession:
I don't always understand this here book industry. Why some books get so much critical/promotional fanfare (and subsequent blockbuster sales/NYT bestseller status) while others languish ignored, unsold and worst, unread. In fact, it's ultimately not for me to understand, but to keep on keepin' on--by offering both the buzzed-about books AND hidden, undiscovered little gems that DESERVE some buzz and excitement.
Case in point: SEND ME, an absolutely stunning debut fiction from Patrick Ryan. About a dysfunctional Floridian family struggling through several decades, it's touching, artful, brilliantly constructed and stays with you for a long time. Reading it made me think of The Corrections. Help me spread the word about this wonderful book. Incidentally, Patrick's a real stand-up guy, too--kind, endearing, unpretentious and eager to chat. My exclusive interview with him is here. Enjoy!
Comments
I agree with you. For example, I'd like to know why QPB doesn't carry AN ATHEIST'S HANDBOOK, ISBN 1-4134-7653-8, published by Xlibris Corporation. As the blurb on the back cover says, "'An Atheist's Handbook' describes the 'Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How' of the author's transition from religious believer to religious nonbeliever in a logical, philosophical, and easy-to-read fashion. It should be required reading for everyone who does or does not believe in God."
Posted by: Dan Culberson | August 20, 2006 09:49 PM
The Atheist's Handbook sounds intriguing!
'Send Me' is one of the books on my bedside table at the moment waiting to be read. I'm concentrating on the Man Booker longlist right now but I'm really looking forward to reading this one.
Posted by: Sue Taylor | August 21, 2006 05:32 PM