Philosophy Made Simple Read online

  So a new life it is. Rudy heads off for a part or the world where he knows scarcely a soul. But he has a guide: a slender book called Philosophy Made Simple, each chapter highlighting the ideas of a different philosopher. No amount of Plato, Schopenhauer, or Sartre, however, can prepare Rudy for the surprises that emerge as he arranges for his daughter’s Hindu wedding and gets to know Norma Jean—an elephant with a talent for painting—who is abandoned to Rudy’s care and who leads him, ultimately, toward the prospect of a new love.

  “Let’s add Robert Hellenga to the lists or America’s most admired fiction writers. Because with Philosophy Made Simple he once again has produced a novel that adds immeasurably to the pleasures of reading’ contemporary fiction.”

  —Alan Cheuse, Chicago Tribune

  “A wry and gentle look at one man’s search for the meaning of bis life. Readers will be enchanted by Rudy’s story.”

  —Harvey Freedenberg, BookPageߦ