Ministry of Sound Owner James Palumbo Talks us through his second book Tancredi
Tancredi is the eagerly anticipated follow-up to James Palumbo's critically acclaimed debut novel, Tomas (2009). It is a novel for our time, cementing Palumbo's position as one of the most exciting and original voices in the UK today.
A satire set in a future world, it is a controversial and thought-provoking critique on the short-termism which pervades our society. Palumbo challenges this need for instant gratification, and highlights its devastating global effect on everything from the NHS through to the catastrophic management of Africa.
Tancredi animated video:
The book's protagonist, Tancredi, is born on the day that scientists discover a new star called Surprise. This star - which has lain undiscovered for millennia - looks set to explode as a supernova and is destined to bring about Armageddon. Tancredi's parents are killed in a space accident and, struck by the futility of life, he sets out to achieve something truly meaningful. His attempt to save the world takes him to several planets which each represent a different theme, from reality TV to obesity.
However, just as Tancredi is ready to give up on this quest, the supernova explodes and humanity is hit by the realisation that they are all going to die. Faced with their own mortality, humans throughout the world are struck by the short-termism which dominates their own lives. What is the point of chasing money, power and prestige?
A single thought remains - why not spend a life that matters?
Watch James talk through his new novel Tancredi - video:
About the Author:
Educated at Eton and Oxford, James Palumbo began his professional career in the world of finance. In 1991 he co-founded the iconic London nightclub Ministry of Sound which is now a global, multi-media business and the largest independent record company in the world. Tancredi is Palumbo's second book.
"Absolutely amazing…it's the most energetic and surreal and extraordinary novel I have read for a very long time" - Stephen Fry
"It's unlike anything I've read in a long time. And that's a good thing. I loved it." - Claudia Winkleman
"Palumbo's surrealist satire of the Age of Eurotrash is as grotesque as it is gripping" - Niall Ferguson
Tancredi is published by Quartet Books on 29th September 2011, priced £10 trade paperback
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