Whole

by Derek Updegraff

146 pages, Hardcover

Published July 16, 2024

Reviews

[E · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nicholas Clairmont recently wrote about this novel as though it were one of the best novels he'd ever read. I thought, "What the heck?" and gave it a go. It is odd. It is short. It is sometimes funny. It is horridly unrealistic. And I kind of enjoyed it. "A few days in the life of a SoCal loser" has been done many times before, it's true. And yet Updegraff's protagonist has a humility, a seriousness, a kindheartedness about him that was appealing.

I wouldn't really recommend going out to find this book, but it wouldn't be a waste of time if you did.

Not sure I'll take more fiction recommendations from Nick Clairmont, though.

[Pat · Rating 3 out of 5]

Modern, well executed. Be careful reading reviews; high potential for spoilers. Scene early in book when protagonist assaults a young man on campus felt a little "off" to me.

[Chase Eyster · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The author is a gifted storyteller and the writing is wonderful. It’s a fast read and well worth your time. I look forward to more Derek Updegraff novels in the future.