George Saunders Says Ditching These Three Delusions Can Save You

The novel is set in 1862 during the American Civil War and revolves around the death of Willie Lincoln, the 11-year-old son of President Abraham Lincoln. After Willie's death from typhoid fever, his spirit finds itself in a limbo known as the bardo, a concept borrowed from Tibetan Buddhism. Here, he encounters a diverse group of ghosts who are also trapped between the world of the living and the afterlife. The story delves into themes of grief, both personal and national, as Lincoln grapples with the loss of his son amidst the broader context of the Civil War. The novel is characterized by its unique narrative style, which includes a multitude of voices and historical quotes, and its exploration of the human experience of suffering and love.

Published in 1957, 'Atlas Shrugged' is Ayn Rand's magnum opus and her longest novel. The story is set in a dystopian United States where increasingly burdensome laws and regulations strangle innovation and productivity. The plot follows Dagny Taggart, a railroad executive, and Hank Rearden, a steel magnate, as they struggle against 'looters' who exploit their work. A mysterious figure named John Galt leads a strike of productive individuals, persuading them to abandon their companies and disappear. The novel culminates with Galt's three-hour radio speech explaining his philosophy of Objectivism, which emphasizes rational self-interest, individual rights, and the importance of the human mind. The book explores themes of capitalism, property rights, and the failures of governmental coercion, presenting a provocative vision of a society in collapse and the potential for a new capitalist society based on Galt's principles.

Congratulations, by the way is an inspiring meditation on kindness, originating from George Saunders' popular commencement address at Syracuse University. The book encourages readers to prioritize kindness and empathy, arguing that these qualities are essential for a fulfilling life. Saunders shares personal anecdotes and insights to illustrate the transformative power of kindness and its impact on personal growth and relationships.

In 'Look Homeward, Angel', Thomas Wolfe crafts a rich tapestry of human experience through the story of Eugene Gant, a young man navigating family dynamics, identity, and societal pressures in the fictional town of Altamont, modeled after Wolfe's hometown of Asheville. The novel delves into themes of individuality, family legacy, and the quest for belonging, offering a poignant reflection on personal growth and self-discovery.