Help Wanted: A Novel by Adelle Waldman
"Help Wanted" by Adelle Waldman, acclaimed author of "The Love Affairs of Nathaniel P.," offers a funny and insightful glimpse into the world of contemporary work in America. Set in a small upstate New York town, the story revolves around Team Movement, a group of workers at the Town Square big-box store. Under the management of a self-absorbed boss, they struggle to make ends meet despite working grueling hours and holding multiple jobs.
When store manager Big Will announces his departure, the members of Team Movement see an opportunity for advancement. Determined to improve their circumstances, they devise a daring plan to secure a management position, hoping for stability and better prospects. Led by a diverse cast of characters, including a comedy enthusiast, a young woman clinging to her high school reputation, and a college football hopeful seeking a new direction, the team bands together to execute their ambitious scheme.
Waldman's keen wit and astute social observation shine through in this darkly comic workplace caper. "Help Wanted" illuminates the challenges faced by low-wage workers in today's economy while offering a poignant and humorous portrayal of ordinary people striving to make a living. With its engaging narrative and sharp prose, the novel delves into themes of ambition, resilience, and the realities of contemporary labor, captivating readers with its incisive commentary and memorable characters.
Recognized by publications like New York Magazine, VOGUE, ELLE, Lit Hub, Kirkus, and Lilith Magazine, "Help Wanted" promises to be a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of the modern workplace and the human stories behind economic struggles.