Alan Opts Out

Simply put, this book is a joy to read. It’s hilarious in a satirical sort of way and surprising, with gorgeous writing and characters you root for. Alan is a successful advertising executive, on the verge of securing a big bonus. Soon, he’ll be able to give his wife, Vivian, what she’s been dreaming of: a swimming pool. The two live in an idyllic Connecticut suburb, and all that Vivian wants is to be accepted by the other women as an “Anne” (their secret club). Everything goes belly up when a rogue dairy farm ruins Alan’s big pitch, and Alan has a crisis of confidence: he is tired of convincing people to buy things they don’t need. Alan takes to the little playhouse outside. He stops showering, stops wearing shoes, and gives up modern plumbing. His daughters seem to love it. Meanwhile, Vivian, who grew up with very little, realizes that she isn’t making her daughters happy by giving them more stuff: one wants to act, and the other is convinced she can talk to animals. Everything culminates with a mid-summer dinner party that Vivian is hosting (her final test in the competition to become an Anne). I just loved this. It was fun to read, the writing is incredible, just an absolute treat. I highly recommend pre-ordering!