In Gavin Extence's debut novel, The Universe Versus Alex Woods, the 17-year-old protagonist, Alex Woods, navigates a bizarre journey after befriending Mr. Peterson, a marijuana-smoking Vietnam veteran. The story begins at a critical moment, with Alex sitting in a car next to the ashes of Mr. Peterson, arrested by the police for marijuana possession. As Alex reflects on his life, he recounts key moments from his past, starting with being struck by a meteorite at age 10, which causes him to develop epilepsy. As he grows, Alex becomes entangled in an unexpected friendship with Mr. Peterson, who is dying and seeks Alex’s help in ending his life. Through his admiration for Kurt Vonnegut, Alex explores themes of morality, life, and death, ultimately embarking on a journey to assist Peterson in achieving a peaceful end. A blend of humor, existential musings, and humanism, the novel explores the unpredictability of life and the search for meaning in a chaotic universe.
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