Whatsa Matter You?

Junior Thibodeaux as a developing fetus is made aware of the world’s impending obliteration, which will be delivered via comet. Junior’s knowledge is absolute: The world will end, and he knows how and when. How do you grow up and live a meaningful life if you know everything in life is for naught? Junior’s family lives this way already, their senses dulled by too much drink and too many broken relationships. But it doesn’t matter, right? That comet is tumbling through infinity on a cosmic death-ride to obliterate all mistakes and misfortune -- and all joy and love and moments of shared beauty, too. Death is certain; does anything matter? Ron Currie, Jr. raises the question and then approaches the answers in his comic and exhilarating novel, Everything Matters! Currie’s writing has gained him a devoted following among readers, and that includes booksellers. The owners of four of St. Louis’ finest book shops -- Subterranean Books, Pudd’nhead Books, Left Bank Books and Main Street Books -- have combined forces to bring Currie to town for a special discussion and book signing at 7 p.m. at Pudd'nHead Books. Books will be available for purchase, with the money divided equally among the four shops.
Tue., Nov. 17, 7 p.m., 2009