Roshan Sethi + Erin Somers: The Simp: A Novel Without a Hero
Join writer, filmmaker, and physician Roshan Sethi for a discussion of his debut novel, The Simp: A Novel Without a Hero. Moderating the conversation is novelist and journalist Erin Somers. The event takes place in Strand’s historic Rare Book Room and will include a conversation, audience Q&A, and book signing.
About the Book:
The Simp is a darkly comic satirical novel centered on Raj Ladlani, an unemployed actor in Los Angeles whose dreams of stardom have long since stalled. When he lands a job as the personal assistant to a wealthy and dysfunctional Hollywood power couple, he believes his fortunes have finally changed. Instead, he finds himself navigating a surreal world of celebrity egos, privilege, deception, and ambition. As Raj becomes increasingly entangled in the family’s personal and professional lives, the consequences of the lies that got him the job begin to spiral out of control.
The novel explores fame, identity, class, and the absurdities of contemporary Hollywood with sharp humor and biting social commentary. Through Raj’s increasingly chaotic journey, Sethi examines the culture of celebrity obsession and the lengths people will go to reinvent themselves.
About Roshan Sethi:
Roshan Sethi is an acclaimed writer, director, and practicing oncologist. He co-created the hit television drama The Resident and made his feature directing debut with the award-winning film 7 Days, which won the Independent Spirit Award for Best First Feature. He also directed World’s Best and co-wrote Call Jane. Most recently, he directed the acclaimed queer romantic comedy A Nice Indian Boy. The Simp marks his first novel.
