LONGLISTED FOR THE 2024 NATIONAL BOOK AWARD IN FICTION "A master comedian with a virtuoso prose style has produced an audacious, original and highly disturbing book . . .

an incandescent satire." —Giles Harvey, The New York Times Magazine From the Whiting and O. Henry–winning author of Private Citizens (“the first great millennial novel,” New York Magazine) , an electrifying novel-in-stories that follows a cast of intricately linked characters as rejection throws their lives and relationships into chaos. Sharply observant and outrageously funny, Rejection is a provocative plunge into the touchiest problems of modern life.

The seven connected stories seamlessly transition between the personal crises of a complex ensemble and the comic tragedies of sex, relationships, identity, and the internet. In “The Feminist,” a young man’s passionate allyship turns to furious nihilism as he realizes, over thirty lonely years, that it isn’t getting him laid. A young woman’s unrequited crush in “Pics” spirals into borderline obsession and the systematic destruction of her sense of self.

And in “Ahegao; or, The Ballad of Sexual Repression,” a shy late bloomer’s flailing efforts at a first relationship leads to a life-upending mistake. As the characters pop up in each other’s dating apps and social media feeds, or meet in dimly lit bars and bedrooms, they reveal the ways our delusions can warp our desire for connection. These brilliant satires explore the underrated sorrows of rejection with the authority of a modern classic and the manic intensity of a manifesto.

Audacious and unforgettable, Rejection is a stunning mosaic that redefines what it means to be rejected by lovers, friends, society, and oneself. " Rejection is unrelentingly brutal and gut-bustingly funny and spares no one—not you, not me. Tulathimutte is a pervert and a madman and a stone-cold genius." — Carmen Maria Machado, author of Her Body and Other Parties

In the poignant world of 'Rejection: Fiction,' readers are thrust into a vividly imagined journey that traverses the intricate layers of human emotions. As the story unfolds, it delves deep into the nuanced experiences of rejection, not just as a heartbreaking ordeal but as a universal force shaping our lives and identities. This evocative narrative weaves moments of heartbreak with the shimmering threads of hope and redemption, pushing characters to the brink of despair only to discover the profound strength within themselves.

Characters navigate the challenges and triumphs of rejection. Rejection is portrayed as a force for personal growth and transformation. The intertwining stories highlight resilience and human connection.

In this evocative narrative Rejection: Fiction' takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster through the ups and downs of human connections. Each character's journey reveals the multifaceted nature of rejection inviting contemplation on its role in shaping our paths. Amidst the turmoil of rejection the tapestry of human strength emerges illuminating resilience in the face of adversity.

Through vivid storytelling the novel captures the essence of healing as characters transform pain into newfound strength and purpose. As layers of rejection unfold the novel delves into unexpected moments of redemption offering glimpses of personal triumph for its protagonists. Through the harmonization of individual stories the book encourages us to embrace vulnerability as a catalyst for growth.

The imagery and emotional depth of the narrative paint a poignant picture of the intertwined dances of rejection and acceptance. This exploration of human dynamics resonates long after the last page inspiring introspection on our own experiences with rejection. Ultimately Rejection: Fiction' is not just a story of heartbreak but a celebration of resilience amidst adversity.

The journey of self-discovery and the enduring power of hope invite readers on a transformational odyssey.

The book's intricate portrayal of rejection transcends its surface interpretation offering a profound exploration of human emotions This emotional depth sets it apart in its genre Each character is crafted with dimensionality reflecting real-world personas dealing with rejection This authenticity creates an immersive reader experience allowing for deep empathetic engagement The seamless interweaving of individual narratives highlights the universal themes of resilience and hope Through diverse perspectives the novel fosters connections that resonate across a wide audience.