When a rationalist physics professor, Helen, gets a call from her somewhat estranged—and recently deceased—friend Charlie, she's understandably perturbed. This doesn't stop her from moving across the country to be closer to Charlie's parents. When her young son starts glimpsing Charlie in their house, she is increasingly drawn into Charlie's former life. Maureen Corrigan has called this heartfelt novel "gorgeous," while NPR noted that it "uses dense scientific concepts to illuminate everyday emotions." Claire Dederer will host this evening with the author.