The Astral

The title of Kate Christensen's latest novel, The Astral, refers to an apartment building in Brooklyn.  But for most of the work, the building seems to be a mere backdrop to the drama that unfolds, both in and outside of its walls.

Harry Quirk is a writer whose wife, Luz, is convinced he's having an affair with his best (female) friend, Marion.  She thus destroys his latest collection of poems and boots him from their apartment.  This final act serves as a catalyst that forces Harry to come to terms with the loss of his marriage, his financial instability, his own literary drought, and his children's unusual lifestyle choices.  Ultimately, he discovers he has no control over any of these things, no matter how much he may try to exert.

The Astral is not a story driven by action.  Rather, it excels at drawing a portrait of a recognizable man whose life seems somehow familiar to readers, despite its peculiarities.  Similarly, Christensen balances what could otherwise turn into a depressing or melodramatic plot with humor, real emotion and striking dialog.