40 - The Mysteries of Pittsburgh by Michael Chabon
This was Chabon’s first novel, a coming-of-age story about Art Bechstein, a kid just out of college struggling with his identity (his father is involved in the mob, and he is simultaneously repelled and fascinated by this) and his sexuality. He meets Arthur LeComte, and is drawn into his circle of glamorous, but somewhat self-destructive friends.I know that a lot of folks love this book, but it took me awhile to like it. The language was too flowery, to the point where it seemed fake - or like the put-on airs of a twenty-one year old desperate to impress you with his intelligence. However, throughout the book it grew on me, and gave greater insight into Art’s character.