The Optimist's Daughter Stephen Tapscott Pnin reveals the absurd and

Pnin reveals the absurd and affecting story of one man in exile

and the condition of universal shipwreck that unites us all

That’s how wars work

As they confront an array of common catastrophes - a colicky baby

The Optimist's Daughter Stephen Tapscott Pnin reveals the absurd andThe people of Mount Salus, Mississippi always felt good about Judge McKelva. He was a quiet, solid reassuring figure, just as a judge should be. Then, ten years after his first wife's death, he marries the frivolous young Wanda Fay. No one can understand his action, not least his beloved daughter, Laurel, who finds it hard to accept the new bride. It is only some years later, when circumstance brings her back to her childhood home, that Laurel stirs