"A Jest of God" is a novel by Margaret Laurence that follows the story of Rachel Cameron, a schoolteacher in a small Canadian town, as she navigates the complexities of her life and relationships. Rachel struggles with her sense of self-worth and loneliness, often retreating into daydreams and fantasies to cope with her dissatisfaction. Her relationship with her mother is strained, and she has difficulty connecting with the people around her. However, when a former classmate, Nick Kazlik, returns to town, Rachel finds herself drawn to him and begins a tentative romance. Through Rachel's experiences, the novel explores themes of identity, desire, and the search for meaning in life. Laurence's masterful prose and vivid characterizations offer a poignant and intimate portrayal of a woman's journey towards self-discovery and acceptance.