The Latecomer A Novel
The Latecomer by Jean Hanff Korelitz, published by Celadon Books on May 31, 2022, is a literary novel that explores the intricate dynamics of the Oppenheimer family. This 448-page work delves into the lives of three siblings—Harrison, Lewyn, and Sally—who are eager to escape their familial ties. Their lives take a significant turn with the arrival of a fourth sibling, a decision made by their mother, Johanna, as she grapples with loneliness after the triplets leave for college.
Readers will find a complex narrative that addresses themes such as grief, guilt, and family dynamics, while also touching on privilege and generational trauma. The story unfolds against the backdrop of New York City, beginning with the parents’ tragic meeting and leading to the challenges faced by the siblings as they navigate their relationships. The Latecomer presents a thoughtful examination of family life and the impact of a new addition to a fractured family, showcasing Korelitz’s skill in character development and storytelling.
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*A New York Times Notable Book of 2022*
*A Washington Post Notable Work of Fiction*
*An NPR Best Book of the Year*
*A New Yorker Best Book of 2022*
From the New York Times bestselling author of The Plot, Jean Hanff Korelitz’s The Latecomer is a layered and immersive literary novel about three siblings, desperate to escape one another, and the upending of their family by the late arrival of a fourth.
The Latecomer follows the story of the wealthy, New York City-based Oppenheimer family, from the first meeting of parents Salo and Johanna, under tragic circumstances, to their triplets born during the early days of IVF. As children, the three siblings – Harrison, Lewyn, and Sally – feel no strong familial bond and cannot wait to go their separate ways, even as their father becomes more distanced and their mother more desperate. When the triplets leave for college, Johanna, faced with being truly alone, makes the decision to have a fourth child. What role will the “latecomer” play in this fractured family?
A complex novel that builds slowly and deliberately, The Latecomer touches on the topics of grief and guilt, generational trauma, privilege and race, traditions and religion, and family dynamics. It is a profound and witty family story from an accomplished author, known for the depth of her character studies, expertly woven storylines, and plot twists.
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