Christopher Scotton's 'The Secret Wisdom of the Earth' is a heartwarming and compelling novel that melds coming-of-age themes with environmental and socio-political commentary. The story follows fourteen-year-old Kevin, who, after a family tragedy, is sent to spend a summer in a small Appalachian town with his grandfather. Scotton beautifully captures the complexities of grief and healing against a backdrop of a community grappling with the moral and environmental impact of mountaintop removal mining. The novel weaves together rich character development, intricate relationships, and poignant reflections on humanity’s connection to nature. It’s a profound narrative that explores themes of loss, resilience, and hope, leaving a lasting impression on its readers.
Christopher Scotton is a contemporary American author celebrated for his unique storytelling and keen insight into human nature. Born and raised in a small town, Scotton draws heavily from his upbringing to craft rich, authentic narratives that resonate with a wide audience. He made a significant impact with his debut novel, "The Secret Wisdom of the Earth," published in 2015. This coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of Appalachia explores themes of healing, environmental issues, and personal transformation. The novel received critical acclaim for its vivid descriptions and emotional depth, earning Scotton a place among the modern literary talents to watch. Through his work, Scotton has been instrumental in bringing attention to rural American life and environmental challenges, thereby leaving a lasting imprint on contemporary literature.
by Alice Sebold
Alice Sebold's 'The Lovely Bones' is a haunting and emotionally resonant novel that delves into the aftermath of a young girl's brutal murder. Narrated from the perspective of the victim, Susie Salmon, the story explores themes of grief, loss, and the intricate connections between the living and the dead. As Susie watches from her personal heaven, she witnesses how her family and community cope with her absence and strive to find closure. Sebold's lyrical prose and poignant storytelling offer a unique exploration of tragedy and healing. 'The Lovely Bones' is a compelling and thought-provoking read that lingers with readers long after the final page.
by Abby Geni
In 'The Wildlands,' Abby Geni crafts a haunting exploration of loss, survival, and ecological reverence amidst a world scarred by disaster. Set in the aftermath of a catastrophic tornado that obliterates a family farm in rural Oklahoma, the novel follows the McCloud siblings as they grapple with poverty and fragmented dreams. Significant themes include the transformative power of grief and the unique bonds formed in shared hardship. Geni interweaves elements of a thrilling adventure with profound contemplations on humanity’s impact on the natural world. Engaging and poetic, 'The Wildlands' invites readers into its vivid landscapes and complex character dynamics.
Elizabeth Strout's 'Olive Kitteridge' is a poignant and deeply moving collection of interconnected short stories set in a small coastal town in Maine. Through the character of Olive Kitteridge, a complex and often prickly retired schoolteacher, Strout delves into themes of love, loss, regret, and redemption. The narrative weaves together various perspectives of the townspeople, highlighting the nuances of their relationships and the struggles they face. The raw honesty and emotional depth of the stories invite readers to contemplate the complexities of human nature and the ways in which we navigate our interconnected lives.
by John Boyne
Cyril Avery isn’t a real Avery—or so his adoptive parents insist. Born to a teenage girl shunned by her Irish village, Cyril is adopted by eccentric Dubliners through the help of a hunchbacked nun. Growing up feeling like an outsider, he clings to his friendship with the charismatic Julian Woodbead, even as life sends him through decades of upheaval, love, loss, and self-discovery. Spanning Ireland from the 1940s to the present, The Heart’s Invisible Furies is a sweeping, emotional journey of identity, belonging, and resilience. With humor and heartbreak, John Boyne crafts a deeply human story of redemption and hope.