A Parchment of Leaves
289
Novel • Fiction
Kentucky • 1910s
1999
Adult
18+ years
A Parchment of Leaves by Silas House is an American historical fiction novel set in early 1900s Kentucky, focusing on the dynamics between a community of white hill people and the native Cherokee tribe. Brothers Saul and Aaron fall for Vine, a Cherokee girl, leading to a story marked by familial loyalty, cultural conflict, and personal growth. The narrative explores themes of love, racism, and resilience as the characters navigate their intertwined lives during the unstable era of World War I. The book includes depictions of stalking, aggression, and racial discrimination.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Emotional
Bittersweet
5,313 ratings
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Silas House's A Parchment of Leaves is praised for its lyrical prose and vivid portrayal of early 20th-century Appalachian life. Critics commend its rich character development and emotional depth. However, some note a slow pace which might deter readers seeking a more dynamic plot. Overall, it is lauded for its authenticity and evocative storytelling.
A reader who cherishes richly detailed Southern settings, strong female protagonists, and family sagas will enjoy A Parchment of Leaves by Silas House. Fans of To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd will appreciate House's evocative prose and intricate character dynamics.
5,313 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
A Parchment of Leaves is Silas House's second novel, published in 2002, and it received critical acclaim for its lyrical prose and rich depiction of early 20th-century Appalachian life.
Silas House based many of the characters and settings in A Parchment of Leaves on his own family history, reflecting his deep connection to the Appalachian region and its cultural heritage.
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The novel's title, A Parchment of Leaves, draws from themes of nature and transformation, often using imagery of the natural world to reflect the characters' inner lives and relationships.
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289
Novel • Fiction
Kentucky • 1910s
1999
Adult
18+ years
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