Endpapers

In 2003, artist Dawn Levit is stuck and struggling to express herself. She discovers a queer love letter in an old book, becoming obsessed with tracking down the author. The novel is a page-turning mystery and an unforgettable story about the journey toward authenticity and the hard conversations we owe ourselves.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 07 December 2023
Publisher: Workman Publishing

In 2003, artist Dawn Levit finds herself stuck. Working as a bookbinder at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, she spends her days repairing old books, but has not created anything of her own in years. With her major gallery debut in six weeks, time is of the essence. Moreover, Dawn is genderqueer and struggles to feel safe expressing herself.

One day, while at work, Dawn discovers a hidden treasure under the endpapers of an old book: a torn-off corner of a 1950s lesbian pulp novel with an illustration of a woman looking into a mirror and seeing a man's face. Intriguingly, there is a queer love letter written on the back. Dawn becomes obsessed with finding the author of the letter, believing that they can help her find her place in the world and solve the most perplexing puzzle of all: how she truly wants to live her life.

Endpapers, a debut novel written with sharp wit and evocative prose, is a captivating blend of a page-turning bookish mystery and an unforgettable story about the journey toward authenticity and the difficult conversations we owe ourselves in pursuit of a world where no one has to hide. Through Dawn's journey, readers are invited to explore the complexities of gender identity, sexuality, and self-discovery, as well as the power of art to connect and heal.

The novel's setting at the Metropolitan Museum of Art adds an extra layer of richness and significance, as Dawn's work takes place amidst the vast collection of books and artifacts. The museum becomes a metaphor for Dawn's own search for identity and self-expression, as she navigates through the complexities of her own life and the world around her.

Dawn's relationship with her co-worker, Sarah, is another compelling aspect of the story. Sarah is a straight woman who is unaware of Dawn's genderqueer identity, but their friendship grows as they work together to repair the books. Dawn's struggle to come out to Sarah is a testament to the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in a society that often seeks to marginalize and erase their existence.

The novel also delves into themes of love, loss, and healing. Dawn's connection with the author of the queer love letter becomes a source of hope and inspiration for her, as she grapples with her own identity and the desire for a fulfilling life. The love letter itself is a beautiful and poignant portrayal of the complexities of queer love and the sacrifices that individuals make in pursuit of true happiness.

Overall, Endpapers is a remarkable debut that offers a fresh and compelling perspective on the human experience. With its sharp writing, evocative prose, and thought-provoking themes, the novel is sure to resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds. It is a testament to the power of storytelling to connect, heal, and inspire, and a reminder that every individual has the capacity to live a life of authenticity and joy.

Weight: 276g
Dimension: 144 x 215 x 57 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781643755403