How I Became A Famous Novelist (2009) - Plot & Excerpts
Fantastic satire of mass market writing and reading in the 21st century. I am always frustrated at how difficult it can be to find a truly funny novel, and I definitely found this a truly funny novel. Really enjoyed reading it. Thought the ending could have been a little less hokey - satire upon satire? Everyone is looking for a twist? But didn't detract from how much I loved the novel as a whole. Great summer read. Funniest thing I've read in a while. Innumerable chuckles, chortles, snorts, and lots of LOLs. Recommended for writers "sick of all this lit shit." Read it thanks to reviews on here. Never heard of it. Gulped it down in 100-page days. Unputdownable. Perfect reproduction/satirization of craptastic literary styles, not to mention book expos, MFA programs, Oprah, author interviews, Hollywood types, Tom Clancy types. So many funny similes, asides, setups. And just when you think it's becoming too jaded/sarcastic, there's a change of heart. Lightly touches on themes of sincerity and authenticity. Loved the execution of the formulaic novel form (pathetic guy motivated by pathetic lovelorn urges concocts pathetic/brilliant plan, goes from rags to riches, but not without consequences or learning something true). Loved authorial attention to narrator's likeability. Loved how it plays by its own explicitly stated rules for writing a bestseller -- for example, including specific meals at specific restaurants in as many cities as possible that include likely readers, or having parts in cars because people listen to audiobooks while driving. Loved that when I wondered why he was taking shots at Yale I googled the author and read that he'd been president of the Harvard Lampoon. He writes for The Office, too. A recommended springtime refresher for all.
What do You think about How I Became A Famous Novelist (2009)?
Gaspingly smart aleck, and annoying, and yet hones in on modern publishing with a fine-edged knife.
—rottkartong
Maybe the funniest book I've ever read. The rare novel I'm jealous I didn't write.
—Anastasia
Hilarious. Brilliant. Unexpected page turning. Loved it.
—Kthiggy
