Books with: Central character is absent from the whole book.

[Helena]

Hello!

I would like to find a book where the central character is never present for any part of the plot. Something like Rebecca or Waiting for Godot - Rebecca and Godot never appear in the story, and all we know about them comes from character dialogue.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

[Sirvantes]

You should warn readers that there are bound to be spoilers in this topic.
(view spoiler)[ The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society (hide spoiler)]

[Helena]

Oh, you’re right. Thank you!

[Lobstergirl, au gratin]

I don't really think that's a spoiler. It's something that would appear in any review of the work.

[Helena]

Just thought of another book that fits - The Truth About the Harry Quebert Affair.

[Helena]

In case anyone else is interested, I recently asked a librarian about this and she pointed me towards several books where a major character never makes an appearance:
Pale Fire
Franny and Zooey
I'm a Fan

[Laray]

Ivanhoe is similar. He does make and appearance, but is absent for a majority, if memory serves. it had been 20+ years since I read it though.

[Helena]

Laray wrote: "Ivanhoe is similar. He does make and appearance, but is absent for a majority, if memory serves. it had been 20+ years since I read it though."

Thank you!