The Autograph Man

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At 12, Alex-Li Tandem attends a wrestling match with his father and friends Adam and Rubinfine, marking a turning point in his life. He meets Joseph Klein, whose passion for autographs captivates him, solidifying his friendships and culminating in the sudden death of his father. This intense beginning sets the stage for a slower narrative as Alex grows up to become an autograph dealer and slacker, grappling with the aftermath of a wild three-day romance with a drug called "Superstar." Under its influence, he wrecks his sports car, strains his relationship with girlfriend Esther, and potentially forges the autograph of his idol, 1950s star Kitty Alexander. The story poses questions about whether his friends will rescue him from the fallout of selling the dubious autograph and help him honor his father's memory on the 15th anniversary of his death. While not as gripping or politically charged as Smith's debut, the novel showcases her skill in managing multiple characters, themes, and intertwining plots, interspersed with humor. Readers may find themselves bracing for the chaotic conclusion.