Built in a Day

Acclaimed author of the story collectionKick in the HeadSteven Rinehart's debut novel is filled to the brim with his characteristic wry humor, unflinching truth, and raw emotional power. Built in a Dayis the story of an over-educated underachiever whose oath to clean up his act is put to the ultimate test when the world around him crumbles into a state of disrepair. Left in charge of his late wife's son and a sultry 15-year-old pregnant orphan named Jule, 32-year-old Andrew Bergman has to find the will and strength to rise to the absurd challenge of becoming a stepfather and -grandfather in the course of a few short months. Darkly hysterical and deeply stirring,Built in a Dayis an affecting examination of love, responsibility, and the resilience it takes to pick up the pieces.

<p>STEVEN RINEHART is the recipient of an NEA grant and a Michener fellowship. His collection of short stories, <i>Kick in the Head</i>, was published by Doubleday in 2000, and his work has appeared in a variety of magazines, including <i>Harper’s</i> and <i>GQ</i>. He lives in New York City.</p>