With this wildly inventive and funny novel, Percival Everett has created his unlikeliest hero to date. Mute by choice but able to read complex philosophical treatises and ponder the worth (not much) of Derrida and Barthes, baby Ralph is considered mentally 'challenged' by his father. On discovery of his unusual talents, however, there is soon a whole host of people eager for a stake in this child prodigy. Among the most fiendish are Dr Steimell, the psychiatrist; Dr Davis and her illegal chimps; and Nana, the secret agent. All have plans for baby Ralph who misses his mother terribly and doesn't warm to his role as 'Defence Stealth Operative 1369'. As the pursuit of Ralph across America gathers pace we are treated to intellectual conundrums and words of wisdom that perhaps only a baby could dream up.
Percival Everett
Percival Everett is an American writer known for his diverse body of work that includes novels, poetry, and short stories. He is known for his experimental and genre-defying writing style that often challenges conventional narrative structures and explores themes of race, identity, and language.
Some of his most notable works include "Erasure," a satirical novel that critiques the publishing industry and explores issues of race and representation, and "I Am Not Sidney Poitier," a comedic novel that follows the misadventures of a young black man named Not Sidney Poitier.
Everett's contributions to literature include his exploration of complex and nuanced characters, his use of humor and satire to address serious social issues, and his willingness to push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.
His impact on the literary genre can be seen in his ability to blur the lines between genres, blend literary forms, and challenge readers' expectations. One of his most famous works, "Erasure," has been praised for its sharp social commentary and inventive narrative structure.
Overall, Percival Everett's work is characterized by its intelligence, wit, and willingness to confront difficult truths, making him a unique and influential voice in contemporary literature.
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