David Gates

David Gates (born January 8, 1947) is an American journalist and novelist. His works have been shortlisted for the National Book Critics Circle Award and the Pulitzer Prize.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Jernigan

    The novel is a darkly comic portrayal of a man's descent into alcoholism and self-destruction. The protagonist, a middle-aged father, grapples with the banality of his suburban life, the loss of his wife, and a strained relationship with his teenage son. His narrative is marked by sharp wit and a keen sense of the absurd, as he increasingly turns to the bottle for solace. The book offers a raw and unflinching look at the protagonist's attempt to navigate his existential despair, showcasing the tragicomic elements of his downward spiral.

    The 4556th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Preston Falls

    "Preston Falls" is a novel that delves into the midlife crisis of Doug Willis, a corporate communications executive who becomes disillusioned with his suburban lifestyle and strained family relationships. In an attempt to find freedom and authenticity, Doug impulsively retreats to a dilapidated family cabin in Preston Falls, Vermont. As he spirals into reckless behavior, his wife Jean is left to manage their two children and her own growing frustrations. The narrative explores themes of personal discontent, the complexities of marriage, and the elusive nature of happiness, presenting a stark, often humorous, and deeply human portrait of a man attempting to escape the confines of his life.

    The 8706th Greatest Book of All Time