Zach Wells is a perpetually dissatisfied geologist-slash-paleobiologist, an expert in an obscure field—the geological history of a cave perched forty-four meters above the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. A man of few words, he enjoys chess with his daughter, exchanging puns with his wife during her yoga sessions, and deftly avoiding committee duties at the college where he teaches. However, his seemingly mundane life takes a dark turn after an uneventful field trip. Returning home, he faces his daughter’s mysterious health issues and a cryptic note found in an eBay jacket, propelling him on a desperate rescue mission to New Mexico.

Why You Should Read Telephone

• A Profound Exploration of Grief: The novel delves deep into the emotional turmoil of loss and the lengths one might go to find solace.
• Compelling Character Study: Zach Wells' complex character offers a raw, authentic portrayal of a man grappling with personal and professional dissatisfaction.
• Intriguing Mystery Element: The enigmatic note adds suspense, keeping readers engaged as the story unfolds.
• Masterful Storytelling: Percival Everett’s narrative challenges the boundaries of conventional storytelling, offering thought-provoking insights.
• Emotional Resonance: The novel’s themes of family, memory, and the human need for connection resonate long after the final page.

Telephone is a story that not only entertains but also shakes you to the core, posing powerful questions about the role of narrative in healing and understanding our own lives.