Straight Man by Richard Russo (1998, Paperback)

I've spent a career as an untenured instructor at the university level. A tenured colleague recommended this book to me; I read a copy borrowed from my local public library; I had to own it. I don't consider myself a collector of books, but I can play that role.

This novel is more thought-provoking than any Op-Ed piece in the Chronicle of Higher Education. I recommend it to anyone who chose an academic career to pursue the life of the mind, only to find the reality different from what was imagined. If petty politics dominate your interactions with colleagues and unfit and unbalanced students deplete the energy you devote to teaching, this book might speak to you.

Ebay is the way to get this out-of-print novel! I got a copy in mint condition for less than I would have paid for a beat-up copy at a second-hand store.