The publication of Puchner’s second novel, “Dream State” coincided with broadcast legend Oprah Winfrey’s announcement that she had selected his 448-page family saga as her next Book Club selection — and with Wednesday’s disclosure by the author’s talent agency that the novel has been optioned for a television series by the production company A24.

Falling asleep on the subway and waking up when my book hits the sticky floor? Yes, that happens with alarming frequency. But looking up from the pages and realizing that, in every sense, I’ve been transported away from where I live is a rare pleasure.