Recently I had a conversation with a friend who told me about the latest rejection of her novel (by an agent). There was nothing but praise from the agent, but ultimately the verdict came down to “This book is just too smart to sell.”
Much scratching of head and muttered curses ensued and I sympathized. I’ve read the book in question and it is indeed a smart book. Very smart. It’s one of the rare examples of a novel that, from time to time, we hear about from an author in his or her cups complaining of being ignored by the publishing industry with the final dismissal of “Well, I’m just too good for them.” …