David Gates
David Gates is an American author and journalist known for his novels, including 'Jernigan', which was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, and 'Preston Falls'. He is also a former staff writer for Newsweek, where he covered music and other cultural topics. Gates' writing is often characterized by sharp wit and deep insights into the complexities of human relationships and middle-class American life.
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.
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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 4536th Greatest Book of All Time -
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 8652nd Greatest Book of All Time
