Fishtown

by Adam Mayle

Pete is a failed chef who has lost the joy of cooking. And that is just the start of his problems. He hates his job. He is loathed by his mother-in-law. Worst of all, his inability to have a child with his wife, Amy, has pushed their marriage to the brink.

But when Pete and Amy travel to Russia to adopt a little boy, their marital crisis explodes into a major catastrophe. Adrift in a strange Slavic land – where their only guide is a young interpreter with a weakness for vodka – a corrupt orphanage, a handsome Russian stranger, and a political revolution will threaten to destroy not only their chances for parenthood, but also their marriage and even their lives. Just how far will Pete and Amy go to become parents? "Mother Land" answers this question as it traces their antic journey into the heart of Russia.

"Mother Land" is a comedic, character-driven work with a wry wit, playful language, and a sharp eye for social satire. Beneath its humor, this energetic narrative probes universal questions of love, family, parenthood, and the frustratingly elusive quest for happiness. "Mother Land" is an intelligent, quirky comedy that will appeal to readers who enjoyed such works as "Absurdistan" and "Everything is Illuminated."

214 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 1, 2012

About the author

Adam Mayle has published numerous articles and essays. He has also sung “Love Shack” with a member of the B-52s, been given a box of cigars by Fidel Castro, and was nearly eaten by vampires in Poland. "Mother Land" is his first novel.

Reviews

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel is enjoyable throughout. In dogged pursuit of a Russian adopted son, Amy and Peter board a roller coaster that won't stop. Experience the insanity of Russian bureaucracy, the frustration of dealing with people of different cultures (actually, just people in general), and a good dose of excitement in story's final pages. You get an immediate sense of the characters and what drives their actions. A great first novel.

[Allison Meierding · Rating 4 out of 5]

After a few months of reading some heavier nonfiction books, this book was a welcome pleasure! I personally found this book hilarious — I was laughing out loud every three pages or so. The author painted a picture of Russia that was both romantic and mirthful, and his characters are lovable in spite of their many foibles. This book is well written with an engaging story and excellent comic timing. I did not want to put it down.