Jack Livings Livres

Awarded the Pen/Robert W. Bingham Prize, this book showcases a compelling narrative that delves into profound themes of identity, resilience, and the human experience. The characters are intricately developed, each facing unique challenges that reflect broader societal issues. The prose is both lyrical and poignant, drawing readers into a vivid exploration of personal and collective struggles. This work stands out for its emotional depth and insightful commentary, making it a significant contribution to contemporary literature.

A couple buy a racing dog thinking it will be the key to great fortune. But when gambling is forbidden the family must find another use for the dog . . . A wealthy factory owner - once a rural peasant - whose altruism is tested in the wake of a horrific earthquake. A powerful gangster clashes with his homosexual grandson. A glassworker is tasked with building a giant crystal sarcophagus for Chairman Mao. Jack Livings is a fabulously compelling new voice in contemporary fiction. These are his stories of modern China. 'Exceptional. I read it as slowly as I could and still finished it in a day. It is done with so much understanding and conviction, you'd think you'd been there.' Michael Hofmann, TLS Books of the Year

On the night of February 6, 1978, an overwhelming nor'easter struck the city of New York. On that night, on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, in a penthouse apartment of the stately Apelles, a crowd gathered for a grand party. And on that night Mr. Albert Haynes Caldwell--a partner emeritus at Swank, Brady & Plescher; Harvard class of '26; father of three; widower; atheist; and fiscal conservative--hatched a plan to fake a medical emergency and toss himself into the Hudson River, where he would drown. Jack Livings's The Blizzard Party is the story of that night.