“Extraordinary for its craft and emotional effect . . . [Ethan Canin is] a writer of enormous talent and charm.”<br /> –<i>The Washington Post</i><br /> <br /> “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.<br /> <br /> “Captivating . . . a heartening tribute to the form . . . an exquisite performance.”<br /> –<i>The Boston Sunday Globe</i><br /> <br /> “A model of wit, wisdom, and empathy. Chekhov would have appreciated its frank renderings and quirky ironies.”<br /> –<i>Chicago Tribune</i>