I'm currently reading Firmin by Sam Savage. Firmin is a rat who learns how to read and is thwarted by his inability to communicate with humans and his alienation from other rats. I consider this book to be an homage to literature.
Normally this is a book I would finish easily in one day. Now that I have children, though, I have to snatch reading time when I can. Although I haven't finished the book, clues point to a sad ending. In general, I steer clear of works of fiction that are not going to end well. I read to be entertained and/or educated, not depressed and reminded that there is only one outcome for us all. If I know right from the start that things aren't going to end well I can steel myself.
I think you will appreciate the literary references and the book titles that Firmin dreams up. If you've just slogged your way through Collaspe by Jared Diamond, for instance, you might appreciate a little light reading and Firmin is just the ticket.
You don't appear to have this linked in from facebook - did you change your mind?
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