Tournament of Books: Matchup Six

Round Six is another matchup of novels with like-minded themes in the Morning News Tournament of Books. Please, no wagering.

Next, by James Hynes v. So Much for That, by Lionel Shriver

Judge: Jessica Francis Kane

Next
This novel seems themed around late adolescent white-boy angst; Kevin Quinn is fed up with his life and wants a change. He flies to Austin Texas for a clandestine job interview, and over the next eight hours has a series of reminiscences, a new romance, and brushes with modern homeland security. Reviewers have commented on Quinn's obsession with cultural minutiae, and the late twist may elevate this novel from the domestic drama it appears to be at first.

So Much for That
Shep Knacker is ready for retirement to an idyllic third world retreat; when his wife gets sick, he's forced into a decision: stay with her or abandon her to stick with the plan of an island safe haven. There are a lot of developments involving America's Health care system, and Shep's need to stay with his wife and in America feels like this is another domestic mid-life crisis novel, albiet with higher stakes.

The judge, Jessica Francis Kane, is a young novelist in her own right; her second novel, The Report, was shortlisted for several prizes.

Summary
A matchup of equals here; two white men in typically white, middle-class conflicts. Whereas So Much for That tackles larger social issues, Next feels more intimate, and perhaps more relevant. Both smack of privileged, middle-class whininess. I know health care is a bigger issue than a young man wanting a new life, but I'm more intrigued to read Next. I'm thinking the judge likes big social issues, so I think that's where she's going.

Winner: So Much for That. A gut feeling.