Inside Story

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"The Mick Jagger of literature . . . Amis is the most dazzling prose stylist in post-war British fiction." --Mick Brown, The Daily Telegraph "[A] charismatic compound of fact and fiction . . . Martin Amis has retained the power to surprise." --Parul Sehgal, The New York Times In this autobiographical novel, one of the most acclaimed contemporary writers presents his most intimate and expansive work yet, born from the death of his closest friend, Christopher Hitchens. The narrative unfolds through their profound friendship, beginning in their youthful days as magazine staffers in London, where they navigated romantic entanglements and literary gossip. Hitchens served as Amis's wingman and adviser, especially regarding the captivating Phoebe Phelps, a figure Amis must confront to pursue love and happiness. Amis also reflects on his literary influences, including Kingsley Amis, Saul Bellow, Philip Larkin, Iris Murdoch, and Elizabeth Jane Howard. His journey becomes a tender and witty exploration of life's toughest questions: how to live, grieve, and die. He examines the horrors of the twentieth century and the lasting effects of the 9/11 attacks, contemplating their lessons for writers. The result is a heartfelt tribute to life and the people who shape it, offering readers an unprecedented glimpse into Amis's extraordinary world.