The Plot

The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz is a psychologically gripping book about a writer who steals a narrative that is too excellent to keep to himself.

A once-promising young author, Jacob Finch Bonner had a respectably successful first book published. He is now teaching at a mediocre MFA programme and fighting for his dignity since he hasn't produced or published anything worthwhile in a long time. When his most conceited pupil, Evan Parker, claims he doesn't need Jake's assistance since the storyline of his unfinished novel is certain to work, Jake is ready to write the statement off as usual amateur narcissism. Then he hears the storyline, however.

Resuming his own career's downward spiral, Jake readies himself for the explosive release of Evan Parker's first book, but that publication never materialises. Jake takes the necessary action that any self-respecting writer would take upon learning of his former student's death, most likely before finishing his book, since such is the kind of narrative that has to be told.

All of Evan Parker's prophecies have materialised in a matter of years, but Jake is the writer riding the wave. He is well-known, affluent, well regarded, and widely read worldwide. However, just as he is enjoying his fantastic new life, the first round of a scary, anonymous campaign begins with an email: It reads, You are a thief.

Jake starts to learn more about his late pupil as he tries to comprehend his enemy and keep the truth from his publishers and readers. What he finds out both horrifies and impresses him. What was the identity of Evan Parker, and where did he receive the inspiration for his "sure thing" book? Who borrowed the plan from and what is the true story behind it?