The Fourth Hand

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#1 NATIONAL BESTSELLER • A NEW YORK TIMES NOTABLE BOOK While reporting in India, journalist Patrick Wallingford becomes a headline when a lion eats his left hand. In Boston, a renowned surgeon is poised to perform the nation’s first hand transplant. Complications arise when the donor’s widow seeks visitation rights with the hand. This unexpected twist leads to a narrative that is both comically brilliant and emotionally poignant, exploring the themes of second chances and personal transformation. Praise for the novel highlights its rich storytelling and emotional depth, with The Washington Post Book World noting it as a “deeply moving tale” that reflects on the growth of two disparate characters. USA Today describes it as a blend of sexual farce, journalistic satire, and tender love story, where Wallingford not only receives a transplanted hand but also embarks on a journey to discover his soul. Chicago Sun-Times calls it one of the funniest novels of the year, showcasing Irving’s impressive storytelling control. St. Louis Post-Dispatch praises it as a thoroughly satisfying literary experience, emphasizing Irving’s unparalleled mastery of characterization. The Denver Post encapsulates the essence of the story as one about the redemptive power of love.