A gem of a comic novel that, while graced with a wicked, droll sense of humor, also presents a redeeming view of humans wrangling with various kinds of modern troubles. I tore through it in just a few days, and after having just previously read three terrific 2023 novel that were much more heavily publicized, felt no dip in enjoyment or appreciation. Both Pulley's style and perspective put me in mind of a sparer, Midwestern Richard Russo. Full of surprises both hilarious and moving, When All Else Fails is enthusiastically recommended (especially to St. Louis readers)!