Synopses & Reviews
Extraordinary for its craft and emotional effect . . . Ethan Canin is] a writer of enormous talent and charm.
-The Washington Post
Character is destiny, wrote Heraclitus-and in this collection of four unforgettable stories, we meet people struggling to understand themselves and the unexpected turns their lives have taken. In Accountant, a quintessential company man becomes obsessed with the phenomenal success of a reckless childhood friend. Batorsag and Szerelem tells the story of a boy's fascination with the mysterious life and invented language of his brother, a math prodigy. In City of Broken Hearts, a divorced father tries to fathom the patterns of modern relationships. And in The Palace Thief, a history teacher at an exclusive boarding school reflects on the vicissitudes of a lifetime connection with a student scoundrel. A remarkable achievement by one of America's finest writers, this brilliant volume reveals the moments of insight that illuminate everyday lives.
Captivating . . . a heartening tribute to the form . . . an exquisite performance.
-The Boston Sunday Globe
A model of wit, wisdom, and empathy. Chekhov would have appreciated its frank renderings and quirky ironies.
-Chicago Tribune
From the Trade Paperback edition.
Table of Contents
The accountant -- Batorsag and Szerelem -- City of broken hearts -- The palace thief.