Ken Kalfus

Ken Kalfus is an American author known for his novels and short stories, which often explore themes of science, history, and human relationships. His works have been critically acclaimed and he has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.

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. 2 A.M. In Little America

    In a dystopian future where the United States has collapsed, the story follows Ron Patterson, a refugee who navigates the complexities of life in a foreign land reminiscent of a fragmented America. As he grapples with identity, belonging, and survival, Ron encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own struggles and aspirations. The narrative explores themes of displacement, resilience, and the search for connection in a world where borders have shifted and the familiar has become alien. Through Ron's journey, the novel delves into the human spirit's capacity to adapt and endure amidst chaos and uncertainty.

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  2. 2. A Disorder Peculiar To The Country

    Set against the backdrop of the September 11 attacks, this darkly comedic novel explores the tumultuous relationship between a couple on the brink of divorce. As the tragic events unfold, both husband and wife initially believe the other has perished, leading to a complex mix of relief and guilt. Their lives, intertwined with the chaos of the world around them, become a reflection of personal and collective disarray. The narrative delves into themes of love, resentment, and the human capacity for both cruelty and compassion, capturing the absurdity and unpredictability of life during a time of national crisis.

  3. 3. Americký Problém

    Set against the backdrop of a divided America, this novel delves into the complexities of modern relationships and societal tensions. It follows the intertwined lives of a diverse group of characters, each grappling with personal and political dilemmas that reflect the broader issues facing the nation. Through a blend of humor and poignant observations, the narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the search for common ground in a world increasingly defined by its differences.

  4. 4. Thirst

    Set against the backdrop of a world grappling with the consequences of climate change, the narrative delves into the lives of individuals facing the harsh reality of water scarcity. As communities struggle to adapt to the new normal, the story weaves together personal tales of survival, resilience, and the human spirit's unyielding quest for hope. Through interconnected characters, it explores the ethical dilemmas and moral choices that arise when a basic necessity becomes a rare commodity, prompting readers to reflect on the fragile balance between nature and humanity.

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  5. 5. Equilateral

    Set in the early 20th century, this novel follows the ambitious endeavor of British astronomer Sanford Thayer, who is determined to communicate with Martians by constructing a massive equilateral triangle in the Egyptian desert. As the project unfolds, it becomes a symbol of human ambition, hubris, and the complexities of colonialism. The narrative explores the interplay between science, politics, and the human spirit, while delving into the personal struggles and aspirations of those involved in the monumental task, ultimately questioning the limits of human understanding and the pursuit of knowledge.

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  6. 6. The Commissariat Of Enlightenment

    Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Russia, this novel intricately weaves the lives of two men, a young filmmaker and an ambitious bureaucrat, as they navigate the tumultuous era of the Russian Revolution. The story explores themes of power, propaganda, and the manipulation of truth, as the characters become entangled in the creation and dissemination of political narratives. Through their journeys, the novel delves into the complexities of ideology and the impact of emerging media on society, painting a vivid picture of a nation on the brink of transformation.

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