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A Dirty Job summary
Brief summary
A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore is a darkly humorous novel that follows Charlie Asher, a beta-male who becomes a "Death Merchant" after inheriting a peculiar family business. It delves into the absurdity of life and death.
Table of Contents
A Dirty Job
Summary of key ideas
Dealing with Death
In A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore, we follow the life of Charlie Asher, a beta-male thrift store owner who is forced to confront the existence of death. When Charlie's wife dies in childbirth, he discovers that he is a 'Death Merchant' - a person who collects the souls of the dying. Charlie is initially hesitant to accept his new role but is soon forced to adapt to his circumstances.
As Charlie grapples with his new responsibilities, he is introduced to a host of supernatural entities, including a seven-foot-tall bird and a pair of hellhounds. His interactions with these creatures add a touch of dark humor to the story, making the supernatural seem almost mundane. Throughout the book, Charlie tries to balance his new job, fatherhood, and his budding romance with another Death Merchant, while also trying to keep the forces of darkness at bay.
Uncovering Secrets
As Charlie becomes more involved in his role as a Death Merchant, he discovers a sinister plot to control the forces of death. He learns that his daughter, Sophie, possesses unique abilities that make her a target for the forces of darkness. This discovery further complicates Charlie's life, forcing him to confront his fears and protect his daughter at all costs.
Meanwhile, the city of San Francisco, where the story is set, starts to experience a series of mysterious deaths. As Charlie investigates, he uncovers a secret society called the Death Merchants, who are responsible for the deaths. He must battle this society and its leader, the Emperor of San Francisco, to protect his daughter and maintain balance in the world of the living and the dead.
Confronting Fate
In the final act of A Dirty Job, Charlie and his allies face off against the Emperor and his minions. The battle is fierce and filled with unexpected twists, but Charlie's determination and love for his daughter drive him forward. He ultimately manages to defeat the Emperor and save the souls of the dead.
As the story concludes, Charlie accepts his role as a Death Merchant and the responsibility that comes with it. He realizes that death is an integral part of life and that he must continue to guide souls to their final resting place. The book ends on a hopeful note, with Charlie ready to face whatever challenges the afterlife has in store for him.
Exploring Life and Death
Throughout A Dirty Job, Christopher Moore uses humor and wit to explore the concepts of life and death. The book presents a unique perspective on the afterlife, portraying it as a bureaucratic system with its own set of rules and regulations. In doing so, Moore manages to infuse a sense of absurdity into a topic that is often viewed with fear and solemnity.
In conclusion, A Dirty Job is a darkly humorous exploration of life, death, and the afterlife. The book's unique blend of supernatural elements, quirky characters, and philosophical musings makes for an entertaining and thought-provoking read.
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What is A Dirty Job about?
A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore is a darkly comedic novel that follows Charlie Asher, a regular guy who unexpectedly becomes a "death merchant." Tasked with collecting the souls of the dead, Charlie navigates the challenges of his new role while trying to protect his family and uncover the truth about the mysterious forces at play. With its blend of humor, fantasy, and heartwarming moments, this book offers a unique take on the afterlife.
A Dirty Job Review
A Dirty Job (2006) tells the quirky tale of a man who unexpectedly becomes a grim reaper, juggling the afterlife and fatherhood. Here's why this book stands out:
- Infused with dark humor and wit, it explores death in a light-hearted yet thought-provoking manner.
- With its eccentric characters and unexpected plot twists, the book keeps readers entertained and engaged from start to finish.
- The blend of fantasy elements with everyday life creates a unique and captivating story that is anything but monotonous.
Who should read A Dirty Job?
Readers who enjoy dark humor and quirky characters
Those looking for a unique and imaginative take on the afterlife
People who appreciate clever and witty storytelling
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Book summaries like A Dirty Job
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A Dirty Job FAQs
What is the main message of A Dirty Job?
In A Dirty Job, the main message revolves around balancing life's responsibilities with humor and the supernatural.
How long does it take to read A Dirty Job?
Reading A Dirty Job takes a few hours, while the Blinkist summary can be finished in minutes.
Is A Dirty Job a good book? Is it worth reading?
A Dirty Job is worth reading for its witty storytelling and quirky characters, offering a delightful blend of humor and mystery.
Who is the author of A Dirty Job?
Christopher Moore is the author of A Dirty Job.
What to read after A Dirty Job?
If you're wondering what to read next after A Dirty Job, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
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