NPR

'The Altruists' Asks: How Do You Live A Good Life?

Andrew Ridker's sharp, compassionate first novel follows a family of flawed but sympathetic bumblers whose efforts to do good more often end up causing harm — to themselves and others.
Source: Viking

Andrew Ridker, still in his twenties, has uncorked a lively, tragicomic debut novel, a probe into questions that never get old: What constitutes a good, moral life, and how do you pull it off in this world?

Many first novels fall into one of two categories: the campus novel, or the dysfunctional family novel. combines the two, but don't let that put you off. Ridker elevates his book with a sharp eye for the absurdities of contemporary American culture

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR4 min read
Despite State Bans, Abortions Nationwide Are Up, Driven By Telehealth
Telehealth accounts for 19% of all abortions, new research finds. And while the number of abortions did plummet in ban states, overall abortions across the country are up.
NPR3 min read
Driver Of Truck That Hit Farmworker Bus In Florida, Killing 8, Arrested On DUI Charges
The Florida Highway Patrol has arrested the driver of a pickup truck that crashed into a farmworker bus early Tuesday on charges of driving under the influence-manslaughter. At least 40 were injured.
NPR4 min read
Michael Cohen, A Key Witness In The Trump Hush Money Trial, Returns To The Stand
He once boasted of being Donald Trump's "protector" but now he is testifying to lying for Trump's benefit, including about payments made to an adult film star ahead of the 2016 election.

Related Books & Audiobooks