"River of Earth" by James Still is a powerful novel set in the Appalachian region of Eastern Kentucky during the Great Depression. The story follows the Bowling family, particularly the young boy, "Beck" and his parents, who live in a remote mountain community and face the harsh realities of poverty, isolation, and the changing landscape of their land.
As Beck grows up, he witnesses the struggles and hardships of his family and the community, including coal mining exploitation, economic depression, and environmental degradation. He grapples with the challenges of his surroundings while trying to understand the complexities of life, love, and human nature.
Through Still's lyrical prose and deep understanding of the Appalachian culture and landscape, "River of Earth" paints a vivid and poignant picture of the struggles and resilience of people living in a harsh and unforgiving environment. The novel explores themes of family, poverty, social justice, and the human spirit's indomitable nature, providing a rich and nuanced portrayal of life in rural Appalachia during a tumultuous period in American history.
0