Dear Great Book Guru, I was at the Longest Table event organized by LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR PROJECT – what fun! Besides delicious foods prepared by the guests, wonderful music, and great camaraderie, I got some wonderful book recommendations. One was about ad executive that turns his back on his past life and opts out of the world as he knew it. It’s supposed to be very funny but also thought provoking. Are you familiar with the book? Longest Table Diner................................................................................ Dear Longest Table Diner, ALAN OPTS OUT by Courtney Maun is indeed a great choice for your next novel. Alan Anderson is a very successful owner of a small, prestigious advertising agency. He has spent his professional career convincing people to buy things they do not need - things his clients are selling. The novel opens as he prepares to win the biggest account of the century - the dairy industry is looking for a sales campaign to counteract the plummeting sale of milk (think the subversive influence of oat “milk”). When the spokesperson he hires turns out to be an anarchist farmer, Alan’s career comes to a halt. Meanwhile his wife has become the ultimate consumer buying her way into elite social circles. His children, as they question their parents’ values, find themselves at odds with friends and teachers. What is Alan to do but….opt out! This is indeed a hilarious take on the lives many of us live, but it is also a sobering take on those lives. Highly recommended!