For Writers and Artists

Russell Hoban wrote one dark and cynical masterpiece--like something from Patricia Highsmith.

The book is "A Bargain for Frances," and it stars two warring friends. Little Frances wants a china tea seat. But her acquaintance, Thelma, says that that particular set is no longer on the market; Thelma says it's better just to accept a plastic tea set. Thelma then uses cash from the sale to buy her own china set; the china set has never really been off the market.

The story gets crazier, and it ends with a famous exchange. "I'll need to be careful around you," says Thelma. And Frances asks: "Do you want to be careful? Or do you want to be friends?"

Living, breathing, bizarre personalities--there on the page. And Hoban does his work with a light touch, with very few words.

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