How Should a Person Be?

Inquiry. The protagonist of Sheila Heti’s novel, How Should a Person Be?, seems to be genuinely searching for an answer to that question. This character, also named Sheila, has recently become divorced, and she is making lists and observing the behavior of others to try to find the answers she seeks. This quirky and odd novel presents email, transcripts of conversations and bits of humor that move things along in Sheila’s quest. One key insight: “He was just another man who wanted to teach me something.” Like other forms of contemporary art, there will be readers who love this novel, and those who just don’t get it. I think I got it, didn’t love it, but recommend it to readers who gravitate to young, modern authors. I suggest anyone considering this novel should read a sample first. If you don’t like the excerpt, chances are this is not a novel you’ll enjoy. Rating: Three-star (Recommended) Click here to purchase How Should a Person Be from amazon.com.