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Literary? Thriller? “The Sequel” keeps you guessing

By Carole J Greene, Jewish Book Festival Committee Member

"The Sequel” and its author, Jean Hanff Korelitz, will be featured at the Jewish Book Festival’s Feb. 13 event. Do not be surprised if what she tells you about her novel leaves you with questions. For me, the biggest question is how I can possibly do justice to this extraordinary book in a review when I don’t dare do a deep dive into the plot!

Well, here goes.

If you have read any of her previous novels, and especially The New York Times Bestseller “The Plot,” you already know she has a penchant for satire. Her sardonic wit is on display in this book, as her lead character, Anna Williams Bonner, reveals what we have always suspected about the book publishing industry: it’s often rigged against wannabe novelists. Anna is the exception. Her debut novel is a stunning success.

She had not even planned to write a novel. It just kinda happened. When asked, she does not provide a clear answer. (Read the book.) She is enjoying being a literary widow, willing to live on her deceased husband’s royalties in perpetuity. Jacob Finch Bonner had been plagued by anonymous accusations that he’d stolen his most recent story. But from whom? And why would he? His prolific production of bestsellers demonstrated his well-developed creative spark. He did not need to steal someone else’s ideas. Taking his own life was Jacob’s tragic — senseless — way to end the relentless persecution. Or was it? (Read the book.)

We begin reading what appears to be a literary novel. Look at the title: “The Sequel.” What else could it be? The author immediately immerses us in Anna’s conversations with her agent and editor, then her travels around the country on her book tour. She receives — again — potent evidence of Jacob’s plagiarism. The moment she decides to turn over every stone to unearth the evil person whose insistence on exposing Jacob for stealing someone else’s story, the novel turns into a thriller. She must protect her husband’s reputation, and those perpetual royalties. Who else is there to get to the bottom of this? She is now all alone in life — no spouse, no children, no siblings. Who else has so much to lose? Or gain?

Here’s where the review gets stuck. In all fairness to the author and her JBF presentation, I will not describe the actions that convert this fine literary novel into an equally compelling thriller. Jean Hanff Korelitz is a master story-teller whose ingenious plot revelations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Read the book.

DON'T MISS OUT!

"The Sequel" by Jean Hanff Korelitz

Thursday, February 13, 2025 1 p.m.

Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center

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