Read This: Alex Miller Finally Lets His Friend Die

Alex Miller's 'The Deal' delves into the life of Lang Tzu, a character from his earlier novel 'The Ancestor Game'. It explores themes of art, Australian racism, family relationships, and the complexities of truth-telling. The novel revisits Lang Tzu's story, offering a different perspective and resolution compared to his portrayal in 'The Ancestor Game'. It also reflects on the author's personal journey and his evolving understanding of his friend, Alan O'Hoy, the inspiration for Lang Tzu. The book is considered a masterpiece by some critics.

Alex Miller's 'The Ancestor Game' centers around Lang Tzu, an exiled Chinese artist and art dealer. The novel explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of human relationships. It delves into the history of Chinese Australians and the pervasive racism they faced. The story is deeply personal for Miller, as Lang Tzu is based on his real-life friend, Alan O'Hoy, whose tragic death inspired the novel. The book's exploration of cultural identity and the search for meaning continues to resonate with readers.