Why people recommend it
Severance is a satirical post-apocalyptic novel by Ling Ma that explores the mundane routines of office life set against the backdrop of a global pandemic. The book received significant attention during the July 18, 2024 episodes of The Book Review. During the episode featuring Robert Kolker Discusses Hidden Valley Road, Jennifer Szalai and Pamela Paul discussed Ling Ma's novel, expressing deep affection for the book while connecting it to the theme of quarantine reading, with Jennifer Szalai enthusiastically declaring how much she loved it and noting that the story touches on a future or past setting. Later in the day, during the episode titled The Ruining of the American West, Gilbert Cruz also mentioned the book. Gilbert Cruz discussed reading Ling Ma's novel Severance, noting that it had been released the previous year and was now newly available in paperback format. Across these discussions, the podcast hosts and guests underscored the broad appeal and timely nature of Ling Ma's narrative, celebrating its sharp commentary on consumerism, routine, and societal collapse.
Who recommended it
- Gilbert Cruz Discussed
- Jennifer Szalai Recommended
Gilbert Cruz — 1 mention
“well I read a book that I know that at least one of you read as well it was Ling Ma's Severance which came out last year and is out in paperback now”
Jennifer Szalai — 1 mention
“which is Ling m Severance have either of you oh I love that book I love love love that book talks about this future where or not future it's actually I think said in the past”
Also mentioned in the same episodes
- Because Internet
- Conversations With Friends
- Courting Mr. Lincoln
- Hidden Valley Road
- I Never Promised You A Rose Garden
- Stoner
Other mentions (1: passing, ad reads, own books)
“and just in case people want to take notes the other book Jen recommended was Ling ma Severance”