So, this book was an award winner. I didn't hate it, but I'm not sure how it got to the list. It actually had a pretty good pace, very thematic, and maybe even had some pretty good quotes here and there. But overall, I can say I read it, but my life is in no way changed or affected by the story.
Jean Purdu is crazy sad over his married girlfriend leaving. He's been sad for 20 years (get over it already). He owns a bookshop on a ship called the Literary Apothecary (love it), but decides one day to take off on the river with an author (Max) who is running from the expectations of a second great book. They pick up Cuneo who is a great cook and looking for his lost love. And along the way, they all come to terms with their fears. A bildungsroman if you will (look it up).
There were some funny parts, but it was mostly where the three men are trying to emerge from the past, but just can't seem to. I can't relate. I'm always looking to the future- usually the next meal.