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Woody Allen Publishes First Novel 'What’s With Baum?'

Critics describe it as autofiction echoing Allen’s public controversies.

Overview

  • The English-language debut from Swift Press follows Asher Baum, a middle-aged writer whose alleged harassment of a journalist threatens his career.
  • Early reviews highlight strong biographical parallels, including characters reminiscent of Mia Farrow, a favored stepson and Ronan Farrow.
  • Reporting notes that two state investigations previously found abuse allegations against Allen unsubstantiated, yet he remains marginalized in parts of the U.S. film industry.
  • French, Italian and Spanish translations are expected soon, while no German publisher has been reported.
  • Critics characterize the 166-page work as comic and autumnal, with some suggesting it may have begun life as a screenplay.