The Palace Thief: Stories, Paperback Book, By: Ethan Canin

Extraordinary for its craft and emotional effect . . . [Ethan Canin is] a writer of enormous talent and charm.""-The Washington Post ""Character is destiny,"" wrote Heraclitus-and in this collection of four unforgettable stories, we meet people struggling to understand themselves and the unexpected turns their lives have taken. In ""Accountant,"" a quintessential company man becomes obsessed with the phenomenal success of a reckless childhood friend. ""Batorsag and Szerelem"" tells the story of a boy's fascination with the mysterious life and invented language of his brother, a math prodigy. In ""City of Broken Hearts,"" a divorced father tries to fathom the patterns of modern relationships. And in ""The Palace Thief,"" a history teacher at an exclusive boarding school reflects on the vicissitudes of a lifetime connection with a student scoundrel. A remarkable achievement by one of America's finest writers, this brilliant volume reveals the moments of insight that illuminate everyday lives. ""Captivating . . . a heartening tribute to the form . . . an exquisite performance.""-The Boston Sunday Globe ""A model of wit, wisdom, and empathy. Chekhov would have appreciated its frank renderings and quirky ironies.""-Chicago Tribune