Prodigal Summer
Review
Kingsolver’s work is always well crafted, and generally recognizes the landscape as an actor in the drama rather than mere backdrop. Three intertwined stories within this narrative show a multitude cross connections which become apparent to the characters as the story unfolds.
Meanwhile, the Characters Deanna, Lusa, Garnett, and Nannie face uncertain futures in a changing Appalachian landscape. Families are losing their farms and wondering why they cannot survive on the land as their ancestors did for generations. People move away in droves to work in factories, a factor which began a few generations ago. The debate between pesticide and organic production rages between neighbors, and several are concerned about the disappearance of pollinators. The disappearing American chestnut and red wolf become points of interest, as does the coyote and its range expansion into eastern states. Farming and ranching interests and the attempt to eradicate the coyote are subjects of hot debate. Two characters are female scientists and the discussion of human pheromones is frequent.
Against this backdrop, the dynamic of male - female relationships plays out in unexpected ways. Like the landscape of Appalachia, and its changing population, the characters face an uncertain future, and find surprising sources of strength and grace.
View all my reviews
Kingsolver’s work is always well crafted, and generally recognizes the landscape as an actor in the drama rather than mere backdrop. Three intertwined stories within this narrative show a multitude cross connections which become apparent to the characters as the story unfolds.
Meanwhile, the Characters Deanna, Lusa, Garnett, and Nannie face uncertain futures in a changing Appalachian landscape. Families are losing their farms and wondering why they cannot survive on the land as their ancestors did for generations. People move away in droves to work in factories, a factor which began a few generations ago. The debate between pesticide and organic production rages between neighbors, and several are concerned about the disappearance of pollinators. The disappearing American chestnut and red wolf become points of interest, as does the coyote and its range expansion into eastern states. Farming and ranching interests and the attempt to eradicate the coyote are subjects of hot debate. Two characters are female scientists and the discussion of human pheromones is frequent.
Against this backdrop, the dynamic of male - female relationships plays out in unexpected ways. Like the landscape of Appalachia, and its changing population, the characters face an uncertain future, and find surprising sources of strength and grace.
View all my reviews
No comments have been added yet.
