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Bech Series

This series delves into the paradoxical world of literary fame and personal insecurity. It follows a protagonist whose success grows as his creative output declines, offering a satirical look at the art world. He grapples with existential crises, fear of failure, and a loss of self as he is drawn into cultural events and global travel. These narratives provide a compelling exploration of creativity, recognition, and the unpredictable nature of life.

Bech at Bay
The Complete Henry Bech
Bech : a book
The Complete Henry Bech: Introduction by Malcolm Bradbury
Bech is back

Recommended Reading Order

  1. 1

    Bech : a book

    3.6(76)Add rating

    The Jewish American novelist Henry Bech—procrastinating, libidinous, and tart-tongued, his reputation growing while his powers decline—made his first appearance in 1965, in John Updike’s “The Bulgarian Poetess.” That story won the O. Henry First Prize, and it and the six Bech adventures that followed make up this collection. “Bech is the writer in me,” Updike once said, “creaking but lusty, battered but undiscourageable, fed on the blood of ink and the bread of white paper.” As he trots the globe, promotes himself, and lurches from one woman’s bed to another’s, Bech views life with a blend of wonder and cynicism that will make followers of the lit-biz smile with delight and wince in recognition.

    Bech : a book
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  2. 2

    Bech is back

    • 180 pages
    • 7 hours of reading
    3.6(24)Add rating

    The renowned Henry Bech is now fifty years old. In this wonderful classic novel, Bech reflects on his fame, travels the world, marries an Episcopalian divorcée from Westchester, and--surprise to all--writes a book that becomes a runaway bestseller. If you've never read Updike before, there's no better place to start. If you've read him for years, you'll be delightfully reminded of John Updike's rightful place in the pantheon of quintessential American writers.

    Bech is back
  3. 3

    Bech at Bay

    • 256 pages
    • 9 hours of reading
    3.7(321)Add rating

    Set in a surreal literary landscape, the story follows Henry Bech, now in his seventies, as he navigates a changing world where his books are commercialized and fleeting. Despite his age, he remains competitive and self-absorbed, confronting critics with a mix of humor and defiance. Throughout five striking chapters, Bech's journey includes enacting revenge and ultimately winning a prestigious writing award, all while embodying a blend of grit and ennui in this mock-heroic exploration of a writer's life in modern America.

    Bech at Bay

  • The Complete Henry Bech: Introduction by Malcolm Bradbury

    • 544 pages
    • 20 hours of reading
    4.0(32)Add rating

    The collection features Henry Bech, John Updike's humorous alter-ego, who has entertained readers with his artistic indecision and vibrant sexuality since his debut in The New Yorker. These stories provide a playful yet affectionate exploration of a notoriously unproductive Jewish-American writer, showcasing Updike's signature wit and lyrical style. Included is a final story, "His Oeuvre," which serves as a fitting conclusion to Bech's literary journey, highlighting the charm and depth of this beloved character.

    The Complete Henry Bech: Introduction by Malcolm Bradbury

  • The Complete Henry Bech

    • 334 pages
    • 12 hours of reading
    4.0(11)Add rating

    Henry Bech, the celebrated author of Travel Light, has been scrutinized, canonized and vilified by critics and readers across the world. This work explores the writing life and what happens when a writer becomes a literary celebrity.

    The Complete Henry Bech