The Book of Dave

The Book of Dave by Will Self is a reprint edition published by Grove Atlantic in 2019, featuring 496 pages in English. This novel begins with East End cabdriver Dave Rudman, whose life takes a drastic turn when his wife takes away their only son. In a fit of despair, Dave writes a scathing critique of the modern world, infused with his own brand of religious fervor and insights drawn from his experiences as a London cab driver. He buries this manuscript in his ex-wife’s backyard, intending it for his son, Carl, when he reaches adulthood.

Five centuries later, the book is unearthed by the residents of Ham, a primitive society in a post-apocalyptic London, where it transforms into a sacred text that shapes their new civilization. Readers will find a blend of dystopian fantasy, religious allegory, and psychological exploration, as well as a commentary on the complex dynamics between fathers and sons. The narrative serves as both a detective story and a satire of contemporary life, offering a thought-provoking examination of religion and societal norms.