The Unfolding by A.M. Homes

Granta Books. Paperback. NEW. The Big Guy, a man who cherishes his family, wealth, and the principles of democracy, finds himself undone by the outcome of the 2008 Presidential election. Filled with disappointment and a desire to reclaim what he believes is his version of America, he assembles a group of like-minded individuals to disrupt and disturb the existing order. As the Big Guy and his cohorts devise a scheme to challenge the status quo, he also grapples with turmoil within his own family. His wife, Charlotte, who has long denied her own struggles, finally seeks help by entering a rehabilitation program. Meanwhile, their eighteen-year-old daughter, Megan, experiences her own awakening as she casts her first vote and begins to explore a political future that diverges from her father's ideology. Along this journey, Megan uncovers deeply buried family secrets that further complicate their already tumultuous lives. The Unfolding, a dark, humorous, and prescient tale, delves into the disintegration of the American dream and offers insights into the origins of our current divided world. The Big Guy's love for his family is evident throughout the narrative. However, his obsession with power and control blinds him to the needs and desires of his loved ones. The disappointment he feels after the 2008 Presidential election serves as a catalyst for his determination to reshape the country according to his own vision. In his pursuit of this goal, the Big Guy enlists a group of individuals who share his beliefs. Together, they devise a plan to disrupt the existing political and social order, aiming to restore what they perceive as the true essence of America. Their actions, though driven by a sense of righteousness, ultimately contribute to the further division and polarization of society. Amidst this chaos, the Big Guy's family faces their own challenges. Charlotte, burdened by years of self-denial, finally confronts her demons by seeking help in rehab. Her journey towards recovery forces the Big Guy to confront the consequences of his past actions and the toll they have taken on his loved ones. Simultaneously, Megan, the Big Guy's daughter, embarks on her own path of self-discovery. As she exercises her right to vote for the first time, she begins to question her father's ideology and explores alternative political perspectives. In her quest for truth, Megan uncovers long-buried family secrets that further complicate their already fractured relationships. The Unfolding offers a poignant reflection on the collapse of the American dream and the factors that have contributed to our present-day divided society. Through its dark humor and prescient narrative, the novel sheds light on the consequences of unchecked ambition, the importance of self-reflection, and the power of individual choices in shaping the world we live in. In a world where political ideologies clash and family dynamics unravel, The Unfolding serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to examine the consequences of their actions and the impact they have on those closest to them. As the Big Guy and his family navigate the complexities of their own awakenings, they are confronted with the harsh reality that the pursuit of power and control often comes at a great cost.