I'll begin by saying most of our book club members did NOT like this book. I loved it!

The story follows the intersecting lives of three men, beginning with a childhood prank with consequences that were unexpected and long lasting. The men, a cantankerous schoolteacher, war hero and researcher into the lives of the saints, a pompous and prosperous businessman/politician, and the world's greatest magician cross and diverge, revealing truths great and small across the decades.

Themes of faith, religion, fate and truth culminate in a fascinating mystery.

Fifth Business is a serious novel, not an easy read but a very rewarding one, written by Canada's greatest novelist.