Howard Belsey, a Rembrandt scholar who doesn't like Rembrandt, is an Englishman abroad and a long - suffering Professor at Wellington College. He has been married for thirty years to Kiki, an American woman who no longer resembles the sexy activist she once was. Their three children passionately pursue their own paths, and faced with the oppressive enthusiasms of his children, Howard feels that the first two acts of his life are over and he has no clear plans for the finale. Then Jerome, Howard's oldest son, falls for Victoria, the stunning daughter of the right - wing icon Monty Kipps. Increasingly, the two families find themselves thrown together in a beautiful corner of America, enacting a cultural and personal war against the background of real wars that they barely register . . .
Zadie Smith
Zadie Smith is a British author known for her insightful exploration of race, identity, and culture. Her most notable works include "White Teeth," "On Beauty," and "Swing Time." Smith's writing style is characterized by sharp wit, keen observation, and complex characters that reflect the complexities of modern society. She has made significant contributions to contemporary literature by challenging conventional narratives and pushing boundaries in terms of form and content. "White Teeth," her debut novel, is widely regarded as a modern classic and showcases Smith's talent for blending humor, social commentary, and poignant storytelling. Smith's impact on the literary genre can be seen in her ability to capture the nuances of human experience and provoke thought on important social issues.