An alcoholic writer pursues his long-standing obsession with the bizarre and colourful Gursky family, in Mordecai Richler’s rollicking tour de force.
Jake Hersh is a film director of modest success, a faithful husband – and a man consumed with guilt – in Mordecai Richler’s acclaimed comic novel.
Thirty-seven-year-old Jake’s alter ego is his cousin Joey, a legend in their Canadian childhood neighbourhood. Nazi-hunter, adventurer and hero of the Spanish Civil War, Joey is the avenging horseman of Jake’s impotent dreams. When Jake becomes embroiled in a scandalous trial in London, England, he puts his own unadventurous life on trial as well, finding it desperately wanting as he steadfastly longs for the horseman’s glorious return.
About the Author
Mordecai Richler was born in Montreal, Canada. An acclaimed Canadian novelist and essayist, he was twice shortlisted for the Booker Prize.