On the HahaFiction shelf
This Book Will Save Your Life
by A. M. Homes
Wealthy Los Angeles day trader Richard Novak can pay people to manage his household, but a hospital visit exposes how alone he is. As he starts reaching out to other people, a sinkhole threatens the orderly retreat he's built for himself.
From the author’s blurb
“an uplifting and apocalyptic tale set in Los Angeles”Read the full description at A. M. Homes, official book description
Paid link · We earn commissions from qualifying Amazon purchases. Affiliate disclosure
What makes it funny?
A horse stuck outside Richard's house sets off a rescue involving a movie star and a helicopter. The police worry about a gathering permit and mistake the arriving veterinarian for a veteran.
The comedy at work
Homes gives the people around Richard brisk, practical dialogue while his surroundings grow stranger. His housekeeper has little patience for his bewilderment, and even a horse rescue proceeds through social awkwardness and paperwork.
Try this if…
Los Angeles satire with room for an isolated man's attempts at kindness and reconnection. The extravagant setting suits readers who enjoy ordinary conversations in increasingly absurd circumstances.
Good to know
Richard's health scare, divorce and estrangement from his son give the comedy an emotional burden. This is a novel about reconnecting with other people, despite the self-help promise of its title.
More funny contemporary & literary
Sources & further reading
- Author and excerpt
Author commentary
- Publishers Weekly review
Review
- Publisher
Publisher
Something we should correct? Let us know.
