Not many authors in their 70s would have Tom Wolfe's confidence. Brazenly dismissing the idea of writing what he knows, the Bonfire of the Vanities author has instead turned to the cavorting and canoodling of students at America's prestigious (and fictional) Dupont University.

Wolfe being Wolfe, this is a doorstop of a novel. No segment of college life escapes attention, thanks to thorough research (and feedback from his own grandchildren).

Wolfe aims for the epic, throwing in a menagerie of characters, as well as academic, sexual and even political scandals. The result is coherent and captivating, with certain elements (the power of the college athletes and the racial tensions within the team, or Charlotte's relationship with her snooty roommate) enthrallingly observed.

But although this is ambitious and entertaining, Wolfe throws such melodrama at his characters that his world becomes fantastic. It isn't biting journalism, but a literary version of The OC - trashy, unrealistic and thoroughly enjoyable.

I Am Charlotte Simmons by Tom Wolfe is published by Jonathan Cape priced £20