Books Like...
'Jack' by Marilynne Robinson is the fourth novel in the Gilead series, focusing on the character Jack Boughton, a troubled white man with a history of alcoholism and run-ins with the law. The plot revolves around Jack's unlikely romance with Della Miles, a black schoolteacher in St. Louis during the 1950s, despite the societal challenges they face due to their interracial relationship. The novel delves into their complex love story, exploring themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the struggles of marginalized individuals in a prejudiced society. Marilynne Robinson's writing style is described as beautiful, observant, and introspective, with exquisite prose that delves deep into the inner thoughts and emotions of the characters.
If you liked Jack, here are the top 4 books to read next:
- #1
Save:Lila by Marilynne Robinson is a contemplative novel that delves into the life of the titular character, Lila, a woman who has faced neglect, abuse, and struggles throughout her life. The story follows Lila's journey from being rescued as a child by Doll, an itinerant worker, to her unlikely marriage to the elderly Reverend John Ames in the town of Gilead, Iowa. Through a blend of stream of consciousness narrative and flashbacks, the book explores Lila's internal struggles, her complex relationship with Reverend Ames, and her quest for love and redemption amidst a backdrop of poverty, loneliness, and religious contemplation.
The child was just there on the stoop in the dark, hugging herself against the cold, all cried out and nearly sleeping. She couldn’t holler anymore and they didn’t hear her anyway, or they might and t... - #2
Save:"Home" by Marilynne Robinson revolves around the story of Glory Boughton returning home to take care of her dying father, Reverend Robert Boughton, in the small town of Gilead. Her wayward brother Jack also returns after a twenty-year absence, seeking refuge and reconciliation. The novel delves into themes of family relationships, forgiveness, redemption, and the concept of home. Robinson's writing style is described as contemplative, slow-paced, and emotionally honest, with a focus on character development and subtle storytelling.
“HOME TO STAY, GLORY! YES!” HER FATHER SAID, AND her heart sank. He attempted a twinkle of joy at this thought, but his eyes were damp with commiseration. “To stay for a while this time!” he amended, ... - #3
Save:"Gilead" by Marilynne Robinson is a contemplative and introspective story told through the perspective of an elderly preacher, Reverend John Ames, who is writing a letter to his young son as he nears the end of his life. The plot delves into themes of family dynamics, spirituality, forgiveness, and the passage of time in a small town setting. The writing style is described as slow-paced, meditative, and poetic, with a focus on philosophical musings and reflections on life's complexities.
I TOLD YOU LAST NIGHT THAT I MIGHT BE GONE sometime, and you said, Where, and I said, To be with the Good Lord, and you said, Why, and I said, Because I’m old, and you said, I don’t think you’re old. ... - #4
Save:Housekeeping by Marilynne Robinson is a hauntingly beautiful novel that follows the lives of two sisters, Ruth and Lucille, who are abandoned by a series of family members, leading them to be cared for by their eccentric and remote aunt, Sylvie. Set in the small Far West town of Fingerbone, the story unfolds against the backdrop of a glacial lake, where past tragedies have occurred within their family. The narrative explores themes of neglect, depression, eccentricity, and living outside societal norms, all while emphasizing the atmosphere and the disconnect between society and those who exist on its fringes. The writing style is described as lyrical, poetic, and meditative, focusing more on thoughts and descriptions rather than action or dialogue.
Housekeeping is a slow, introspective coming-of-age story that delves deep into the complexities of familial relationships, abandonment, and individual choices. The novel paints a vivid picture of Ruth and Lucille's unconventional upbringing, first under the care of their grandmother and great aunts, and later under the enigmatic Sylvie. Through evocative prose and morally ambiguous characters, the book explores the themes of loss, transience, and the search for identity in a world that often feels disconnected and isolating.
My name is Ruth. I grew up with my younger sister, Lucille, under the care of my grandmother, Mrs. Sylvia Foster, and when she died, of her sisters-in-law, Misses Lily and Nona Foster, and when they f...
