Our next book for discussion is Driftless by David Rhodes. We will meet on Wednesday, February 8, 2012, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. at Martha Merrell's/Cuddles. Charlene will present the author's biography and lead the discussion.
Driftless was the 2010 selection for the All Iowa Reads program, a state-wide reading of one book, sponsored by the Iowa Center for the Book.
There are discussion questions, an author biography, and interviews on the Iowa Center for the Book web site at:http://www.iowacenterforthebook.org/air/previous-years/air10
From Booklist *Starred Review* By the end of the darkly rhapsodic novel Rock Island Line (1975), July Montgomery has suffered enough tragedies for several cursed lifetimes even though he is only 22. His creator, on the other hand, was riding high as each of his three novels met with acclaim. But Rhodes was about to face his own season of loss. Now, in a triumphant return after 30 years (see the adjacent “Story behind the Story” for details), Rhodes picks up the thread of July’s life with deepened powers, writing not in shadow but in light. As for July, after two decades of drifting, he has finally found peace in the small town of Words, Wisconsin. Respected and cherished, he is the hub of this brimming novel, each spoke a suspenseful story line about the unexpectedly dramatic lives of the good people of Words. The compelling cast includes Graham, a farmer, and Cora, his whistleblower wife intent on exposing agribusiness corruption; Winifred, the high-strung pastor; and the incredible Brasso sisters: large, nurturing Violet and tiny, smart Olivia, who rules the book from her wheelchair. In vividly realized scenes involving family secrets, legal battles, gambling, and miracle cures, Rhodes illuminates the wisdom acquired through hard work, the ancient covenant of farming, and the balm of kindness. Encompassing and incisive, comedic and profound, Driftless is a radiant novel of community and courage. --Donna Seaman --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
Here is a college student review of Driftless on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S04O7zje4B0 (6.5 minutes)
There are six, one to three-minute interviews with David Rhodes on You Tube at: http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=David+Rhodes%2C+Driftless&oq=David+Rhodes%2C+Driftless&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&gs_sm=e&gs_upl=1141l7922l0l8938l25l19l1l0l0l0l609l1718l0.1.2.1.0.1l5l0
Looking forward!
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