Pip is 23, crippled by student debt, working as a telemarketer and living in an Oakland squat at the outset of Jonathan Franzen’s “Purity.” Smothered by her reclusive mother, who refuses to reveal Pip ...

Web editor Lizzy Acker does not hate Jonathan Franzen, but dislikes him. Arts and Culture editor Martin Cizmar does not love Jonathan Franzen, but likes him. Both read his new Big Important Book, ...

NEW YORK — Writing has become no easier for Jonathan Franzen, whose fifth novel comes out this fall.

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