On a recent red-eye flight back to Reagan National, DCist picked up Tom Wolfe’s latest novel, “I Am Charlotte Simmons.” Ever the reporter, Wolfe’s novel aims to do for the college experience what “A Man in Full” did for corporate Atlanta and “The Bonfire of the Vanities” did for ’80s New York. DCist was hoping to chat with Wolfe about his work (and his fashion), but we won’t be able to make his 12:30 p.m. signing tomorrow at Olsson’s Penn Quarter. Wolfe will be there to only sign copies of his new book (“No other books or memorabilia!” says the publisher). Be prepared for lines; Olsson’s will begin distributing tickets at 9 a.m. tomorrow.

So what did DCist think of the book? To a certain extent, Wolfe succeeds at depicting student life — but the book never moves beyond the perspective of a middle-aged outsider looking into the college experience and seeing nothing but two dimensional archetypes. The predictable cast of characters (the prude, the frat boy, the jock, the nerd, etc.) lacks real depth, and the plot feels slightly rushed. Still, the book was perfect for a long flight — and a pivotal (one might say “climactic”) section takes place at a fictional D.C. hotel. We recommend it if you’re looking for quick and easy literary candy and don’t feel like conspiracies or re-imaginings. If you’re waiting for the movie adaptation, don’t hold your breath. Wolfe’s had trouble with movies based on his work, and other films have provided much more interesting (and hilarious) takes on Wolfe’s subject.