“Middle Spoon” is the latest novel by National Book Award finalist Alejandro Varela. It explores the inner thoughts and ruminations of one man. Throughout the book, readers are treated to the humorous and obsessive reflections of a recently heartbroken narrator.

The narrator is in a long-term, committed relationship with his husband, and they are parents to two children. While they are content in their relationship, they have chosen to open it up to polyamory.

Recently, the narrator ended a relationship with his boyfriend, Ben, and is struggling to cope with the loss. To process his feelings, he writes letters to Ben—letters he never intends to send. In these letters, he shares insights about his life as a BIPOC gay man, as well as his thoughts on everyday life as a New Yorker working in public health. While grappling with society’s perceptions and his own biases regarding polyamory, he also addresses issues such as systemic racism, class struggles, and parenting challenges.

This novel strikes a humorous yet semi-neurotic tone. Readers will relate to the tendency to overanalyze everything during a breakup and heartbreak. I found myself questioning the reliability of the narrator; only a few details confirmed his perspective. I would have appreciated seeing portions of the novel from the viewpoints of the husband and/or boyfriend.

I would recommend this book, although it may be difficult to read in one sitting due to its all-consuming exploration of wallowing and heartbreak. The writing is clever and engaging, capturing the raw and authentic feelings associated with loss.

Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Group Viking for the advance reader copy.