The Imperfectionists A Novel
The Imperfectionists A Novel by Tom Rachman, published by Random House Publishing Group on January 4, 2011, is a literary work that explores the complex lives of the staff at an English language newspaper in Rome. This first edition spans 304 pages and delves into the personal dramas of its characters, revealing how their individual struggles often overshadow the daily news headlines. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a changing media landscape, highlighting the challenges faced by the newspaper as it navigates the transition to the digital age.
Readers will encounter a diverse cast, including Kathleen, the editor in chief grappling with personal betrayal, and Arthur, an obituary writer transformed by tragedy. The story also features Abby, whose job cuts intertwine with her love life, and a veteran freelancer who risks everything for a story. As the characters confront their imperfections and the newspaper’s uncertain future, the book offers insights into the rich history of the publication and its enigmatic founder. The Imperfectionists presents a vivid portrayal of the intersection between personal and professional lives within the realm of journalism.
Official synopsis Publisher
From the author of The Italian Teacher, this acclaimed debut novel set in Rome follows the topsy-turvy lives of the denizens of an English language newspaper.
NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY
Janet Maslin, The New York Times • The Economist • NPR • Slate • The Christian Science Monitor • Financial Times • The Plain Dealer • Minneapolis Star Tribune • St. Louis Post-Dispatch • The Kansas City Star • The Globe and Mail • Publishers Weekly
Look in the back of the book for a conversation between Tom Rachman and Malcolm Gladwell
Fifty years and many changes have ensued since the paper was founded by an enigmatic millionaire, and now, amid the stained carpeting and dingy office furniture, the staff’s personal dramas seem far more important than the daily headlines. Kathleen, the imperious editor in chief, is smarting from a betrayal in her open marriage; Arthur, the lazy obituary writer, is transformed by a personal tragedy; Abby, the embattled financial officer, discovers that her job cuts and her love life are intertwined in a most unexpected way. Out in the field, a veteran Paris freelancer goes to desperate lengths for his next byline, while the new Cairo stringer is mercilessly manipulated by an outrageous war correspondent with an outsize ego. And in the shadows is the isolated young publisher who pays more attention to his prized basset hound, Schopenhauer, than to the fate of his family’s quirky newspaper.
As the era of print news gives way to the Internet age and this imperfect crew stumbles toward an uncertain future, the paper’s rich history is revealed, including the surprising truth about its founder’s intentions.
Spirited, moving, and highly original, The Imperfectionists will establish Tom Rachman as one of our most perceptive, assured literary talents.
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