An elderly famous author asks his 2 estranged sons to visit him after his best friend dies and he realizes he may not be long for this world. His purpose is to reveal secret information about his third son, and to ask them to promise to be there for this youngest son after the father dies. Well-written, sometimes funny novel with distinct, very different characters. Also a book about a book (the main character's first and most famous novel). Set in NY City, this is a good narrative about family, friendships, fame, and failures.