"Genesis" is a novel written by Wallace Stegner and published in 1981. The book is set in the American West and explores the history and mythology of the region. The story revolves around the life of a man named Joseph Allston, who is a retired literary agent and is reflecting on his life and his relationship with his wife. As he looks back on his life, he also reflects on the history of the American West, and the conflicts between different groups that have shaped the region. The novel weaves together themes of identity, memory, and the search for meaning, as Joseph struggles to come to terms with his past and find a sense of purpose in his life. Stegner's writing is lyrical and evocative, painting a vivid portrait of the American West and its people. The book is considered one of Stegner's masterpieces and has been praised for its exploration of complex themes and its richly drawn characters.