�Extraordinary for its craft and emotional effect . . . [Ethan Canin is] a writer of enormous talent and charm.��The Washington Post�Character is destiny,� wrote Heraclitus�and in this collection of four unforgettable stories, we meet people struggling to understand themselves and the unexpected turns their lives have taken. In �Accountant,� a quintessential company man becomes obsessed with the phenomenal success of a reckless childhood friend. �Batorsag and Szerelem� tells the story of a boy�s fascination with the mysterious life and invented language of his brother, a math prodigy. In �City of Broken Hearts,� a divorced father tries to fathom the patterns of modern relationships. And in �The Palace Thief,� a history teacher at an exclusive boarding school reflects on the vicissitudes of a lifetime connection with a student scoundrel. A remarkable achievement by one of America�s finest writers, this brilliant volume reveals the moments of insight that illuminate everyday lives.�Captivating . . . a heartening tribute to the form . . . an exquisite performance.��The Boston Sunday Globe�A model of wit, wisdom, and empathy. Chekhov would have appreciated its frank renderings and quirky ironies.��Chicago Tribune