Lazarus Man

Academy Award–nominated screenwriter and novelist Price’s (Lush Life) newest novel recounts a story of attempted redemption, distorted truth, and mythmaking. He excels at bringing New York City to life. Readers first meet Anthony Carter, a 42-year-old unemployed teacher, when he’s in a New York bar, chatting with a young woman. Separated from his wife and stepdaughter, he’s trying to recover from a substance-use disorder. When a building collapses, and he’s rescued 36 hours later from the rubble, he’s anointed a hero and a sage. Detective Mary Roe tries to locate the building’s missing residents while dealing with her failing marriage. Funeral director Royal Davis attempts to hold onto his funeral home in spite of a family dispute and 2008’s economic downturn. Meanwhile, Felix, a young photographer and videographer, documents life on the street and the aftermath of the explosion. All these characters—plus many more—intersect in a sociological analysis of an urban community. The novel’s one weakness lies in its attempt to tie up all the loose ends in a bow, which sometimes seems strained.

[CORRECTION NOTICE: We found an editorial error in the original review; this online version has been corrected.]