TL;DR
Less by Andrew Sean Greer is a comedic novel about Arthur Less, a failed novelist who travels the world to avoid his ex-boyfriend's wedding, offering a poignant exploration of love and self-discovery.
What is Less about
Less, written by Andrew Sean Greer and winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2018, is a charming and comedic novel that follows the misadventures of Arthur Less, a failed novelist nearing fifty. Faced with the dilemma of attending his ex-boyfriend's wedding, Arthur decides to embark on a global journey to avoid the event. As he attends various literary events from France to India, Germany to Japan, Arthur grapples with love, almost falls to his death, and ultimately embarks on a path of self-discovery. The novel masterfully weaves humor with deep reflections on the human heart, making it a delightful read.
Less 5 Key Takeaways
Invitation to Ex-Boyfriend's Wedding
Arthur Less receives a wedding invitation from his ex-boyfriend of nine years, who is marrying someone else. Unable to decide between attending and declining, Arthur opts to escape by traveling.
Acceptance of Literary Invitations
Arthur begins to accept various literary event invitations from around the world, using them as an excuse to avoid the wedding while confronting his failed literary career.
Global Adventures
Arthur's journey takes him to countries like France, India, Germany, and Japan, where he experiences a series of comedic and near-tragic events, including almost falling in love and almost falling to his death.
Self-Discovery
Throughout his travels, Arthur undergoes significant personal growth. He reflects on his past relationships and his career, leading to moments of self-realization and acceptance.
Resolution
In the end, Arthur returns home with a newfound understanding of himself and his place in the world. He recognizes the importance of facing his problems rather than running from them.
Top Less Quotes
- 'Who says you can't run away from your problems?'
- 'A failed novelist about to turn fifty.'
Who should read Less?
Less is perfect for readers interested in LGBTQ+ themes, comedic novels, and stories of self-discovery. It's particularly suited for those who appreciate humor in the face of life's challenges and enjoy literary fiction that offers both laughs and deep reflections.
Less Best Reviews
- 'Charming, languid and incredibly funny, I absolutely adored Arthur' - Jenny Colgan.
- 'Marvellously, endearingly, unexpectedly funny' - Gary Shteyngart.
- 'Hilarious, and wise, and abundantly funny' - Adam Haslett.
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Less FAQs
What is the story of Less by Greer?
Less by Andrew Sean Greer follows the misadventures of failed novelist Arthur Less as he travels the world to avoid attending his ex-boyfriend's wedding. It's a story of self-discovery and the search for love.
Is Less an LGBT book?
Yes, Less is an LGBT book. It follows Arthur Less, a gay novelist, as he navigates the complexities of love and aging within the LGBTQ+ community.
Why did Andrew Sean Greer write Less?
Andrew Sean Greer wrote Less to fill a gap in literature for stories about two men in love that aren't centered around trauma and despair. He wanted to create a humorous and heartfelt narrative.