Books Like...

Clara Callan by Richard B. Wright is a novel set in the late 1930s that follows the lives of two sisters, Clara and Nora Callan. Clara is a schoolteacher in Ontario, while her younger sister Nora pursues a career as an actress in New York. The story is told through a series of letters and diary entries, showcasing the emotional depth and unique life stories of the sisters as they navigate through the challenges of social expectations for women during that era. The book provides a glimpse into the sisters' contrasting paths and the historical events of the time, such as the Great Depression and the looming threat of war.

'Ellen Foster' by Kaye Gibbons tells the story of an eleven-year-old orphan named Ellen who faces abuse and neglect from her family before finding her own path to salvation. The novel is written in a beautiful language with attention to detail, crafting a clean and spare portrait of Ellen's journey to find a place where she belongs. Ellen's voice and emotions are portrayed with honesty, showcasing her courage, wit, and determination to overcome the odds stacked against her.

Ellen's story is a heartwarming tale of resilience as she navigates through a series of cold and uncaring relatives, finding solace in her own strength and the occasional kindness of others. The plotline, though a stretch, highlights the power of human will against adversity, making this book a moving and insightful exploration of a young girl's struggle for survival and hope in the face of desolation.

"When These Mountains Burn" by David Joy delves into the harsh realities of poverty, despair, and addiction flowing through the Appalachia Mountains of Western North Carolina. Through the eyes of characters like Ray, a retired Fire Forester, and local addicts like Denny, the author vividly portrays the devastating effects of illegal drugs on families and communities. As Ray is pushed to seek vengeance against ruthless drug dealers threatening his son's life, a gripping tale of desperation, corruption, and the pursuit of justice unfolds. The author's writing style combines slow-cooked grit lit with poetic prose, creating a noir atmosphere reminiscent of Jim Thompson while addressing contemporary issues with authority and topicality.

'Cavedweller' by Dorothy Allison follows the story of Delia Byrd, a California woman who returns to her small hometown in Georgia to face the life and daughters she left behind after fleeing with a rock musician. The narrative delves into the intricacies of families, exploring themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the consequences of past decisions. Allison's writing style is highly descriptive, creating a sensory world that vividly portrays the characters and the setting of Cayro, Georgia.

Delia's journey involves confronting demons from her past, including an abusive husband, unforgiving townspeople, and the challenges of reconnecting with her estranged daughters. As the story unfolds, Delia navigates through complex relationships and personal growth, ultimately striving to rebuild her life and find a sense of normalcy amidst the turmoil of her past choices.

'Fair and Tender Ladies' by Lee Smith is a captivating story told through a series of letters written by the main character, Ivy Rowe, spanning from her childhood to old age. The narrative follows Ivy's life in the Appalachian mountains, touching upon significant historical events such as the first World War and societal changes spanning decades. Through Ivy's letters, readers are immersed in a world rich with human experiences, relationships, and the vibrant culture of Appalachia. The writing style, characterized by colloquial language and beautifully crafted descriptions, brings Ivy's story to life, making it a poignant and engaging read.

Hill Women: Finding Family and a Way Forward in the Appalachian Mountains by Cassie Chambers is a memoir that covers the author's life and her family's journey from Appalachian sharecropping to her accomplishments as an Ivy League grad and a legal aid lawyer in Kentucky. The book highlights the strength and resilience of the women in her family, portraying their hard work, support, and values that have shaped her life and career. Chambers writes about the challenges faced by the people in Appalachia, focusing on the positive aspects of the community and the importance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty.

Salvation on Sand Mountain by Dennis Covington is a nonfiction book that delves into the world of snake handling churches in Southern Appalachia. The author, a journalist, initially went to cover a criminal trial in the area but ended up immersing himself in the culture of these churches, where believers handle snakes as a test of faith. Through his observations and participation, Covington explores the complexities of this religious practice and the cultural backdrop that sustains it. The book provides an honest and intriguing account of Covington's journey of self-discovery within a world that is both familiar and foreign to him.

Covington's writing style in Salvation on Sand Mountain has been described as masterly and artistic, offering a vivid and engaging narrative that draws readers into the mysterious and human aspects of the snake handling churches. The book not only sheds light on the religious fervor and eccentricities of the practitioners but also delves into the author's personal reflections on his own background, spirituality, and the cultural connections he discovers throughout his exploration of this unique community.

"Flight Behavior" by Barbara Kingsolver follows the story of Dellarobia, an Appalachian woman who stumbles upon a population of monarch butterflies on her family farm, attracting various visitors including a scientist studying the phenomenon. The novel explores themes of love, friendship, small-town life, marriage, and climate change, all woven together in a delicate narrative. Kingsolver's writing style is described as beautiful and captivating, drawing readers into Dellarobia's world with vivid imagery and engaging storytelling.

In "Winter's Bone" by Daniel Woodrell, the story follows Ree Dolly, a strong 17-year-old girl from the Ozarks, who takes on the responsibility of caring for her family when her parents fail. Her father has skipped bail, leaving the family at risk of losing their home. Ree sets out to find him, dead or alive, delving into the harsh poverty and dangerous world of the Ozarks. The novel portrays a stark and gritty existence, filled with violence, poverty, and a code of silence that dominates the community. Woodrell's writing is intense and powerful, painting a vivid picture of Ree's struggle for survival and the complex characters she encounters.

The book is a raw and tragic coming-of-age story set in a world that is both familiar and brutal, where Ree must navigate through backwoods crime and betrayal to protect her family. Woodrell's storytelling captures the harsh realities of life in the Ozarks, with lyrical descriptions of the landscape and characters that feel real and complex. The novel unfolds with a compelling plot, driven by a strong female protagonist facing challenges that test her resilience and strength in a world where family bonds are paramount.

'The Giver of Stars' by Jojo Moyes is a historical fiction novel set in rural Kentucky during the Great Depression, focusing on a group of women who become packhorse librarians as part of Eleanor Roosevelt's WPA program. The story follows Englishwoman Alice, who finds herself in an unhappy marriage and discovers purpose and friendship through the packhorse library program. Led by the bold and unconventional Margery, the librarians face challenges from the conservative locals, leading to a murder trial that tests their bonds and beliefs.