The Loser Letters

The Loser Letters is Mary Eberstadt’s sharp, satirical 2010 novel about A.F. Christian — a young woman writing from rehab to the heroes of the New Atheism, eager to help them shore up their case against God. As her letters unfold, the cracks in her own bravado begin to show, and a more serious story emerges underneath the comedy.

Originally serialized in National Review Online, the novel was later adapted for the stage by playwright Jeffrey Fiske and premiered at the Catholic University of America’s Hartke Theater in fall 2016 for a two-week run. Other adaptations are underway.

Witty, fast-moving, and surprisingly tender, The Loser Letters remains Eberstadt’s most playful book — and a quietly devastating reply to the New Atheism.