Tripticks

First published in 1972, British author Ann Quin's Tripticks now makes its U.S. debut (her Passages will appear in fall 2002). Disjointed and surreal, it evokes some of the more experimental Beat writers as it tracks its narrator's trip across America. He's followed by his ex-wife and her ""gigolo schoolboy"" lover; this ""pre-punk"" journey is interrupted by flashbacks (often of his bizarre, wealthy in-laws), seemingly random lists (""Rococo atmosphere/ diamond dust mirrors/ camel's hair wallpaper"") and comic-like drawings by Carol Annand. Quin (1936-1973) was a writer ahead of her time; 30 years later, this book still feels fresh and exciting and should win her some new fans. (July)