Jess Walter: "So Far Gone"

On Thursday, June 11, National Book Award finalist and #1 New York Times bestselling author will discuss his new novel about the dysfunction of modern America, , at Bookends & Beginnings.

When Jess unexpectedly had to cancel his Chicago trip to Bookends last year for the hardcover launch of we (and you!) were devastated - we LOVE this book! SO, we were THRILLED when Jess announced he'd be here this year, for the paperback launch. If you already have the hard copy, bring it for Jess to sign, and we'll also have plenty of paperback copies on hand!

Walter's highly anticipated eighth novel is a biting, heartfelt, and sharply comic story about a reclusive journalist, Rhys Kinnick, who reemerges from a self-imposed exile to rescue his missing grandchildren from a fringe militia group. What follows is a raucous and tender road trip across a deeply divided America, populated by unlikely companions and the ghosts of Kinnick’s own regrets. With the acumen that has made Walter a literary standout, the novel dives into the absurdities and anxieties of contemporary life, all while maintaining a buoyant, human core.

is the author of seven previous novels, including the bestsellers and , and the National Book Award Finalist . His short fiction, collected in and , has won the O. Henry Prize, the Pushcart Prize and appeared three times in Best American Short Stories. He lives in his hometown of Spokane, Washington.

The discussion and Q&A will take place downstairs at Bookends & Beginnings and will be followed by a book signing. Doors and the MiniBar will open at 5:00 PM for this event.

Getting here: We are located at 1620 Orrington Avenue, in downtown Evanston, just one block east of the Davis Street Metra and CTA public transit stops. There is metered street parking as well as numerous parking garages nearby.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Bookends & Beginnings