ATMOSPHERIC DISTURBANCES

author:
RIVKA GALCHEN

Fiction
240 pages
Farrar, Straus and Giroux

Beginning with the disappearance of his wife (sort of), a psychiatrist sets off in search of his beloved by following meteorological clues (sort of), a mental patient under his supervision (or is it the other way around), and his constantly shifting interpretations of the professional works of one Dr. Tzvi Gal-Chen (who may or may not even be alive). While on his quest for answers, the good doctor begins to lose a good bit of clarity, focus and, ultimately, his sanity.

This book is part love story, part science fiction, and a whole lot of fun. First time author (which I find unbelievable) Rivka Galchen has crafted a masterful novel that explores complex issues such as the human psyche, Doppler radar, compatibility with a loved one, and the ability to interpret and ultimately confront our deepest fears and insecurities. The journey she sends us on is both profound and hilarious, and readers will often feel is if they are caught in the middle of a Michel Gondry film questioning which way is up—quite a nice feeling, really.

It is a rare treat to find a book that as thoughtful and playful as this. From beginning to end, Atmospheric Disturbances demands the reader’s attention, and with writing like this we have little choice but to come along for the ride.

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