Who Would Like This Book:
If you love immersive storytelling and gritty, character-driven tales set in hard times, this one's for you. James Lee Burke brings his signature vivid prose to a story about coal miners in Eastern Kentucky, fighting against impossible odds. Fans of coming-of-age journeys, social justice, and flawed but deeply human protagonists will find a lot to love here. If you're into stories that explore the resilience of the human spirit amidst stark realities, or you're a fan of authors like Larry McMurtry or Elmore Leonard, you'll be drawn in from the first page.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers might find the novel a little bleak or heavy given its focus on poverty, hardship, and tough choices. If you prefer fast-paced action over introspective and character-driven stories, or if you’re looking for the polished complexity of Burke’s later works, this early novel might feel a bit underdeveloped, particularly with some of the side characters. The somber atmosphere and slower buildup could be off-putting if you’re in the mood for lighter fare.
About:
"To the Bright and Shining Sun" by James Lee Burke is a powerful and poignant novel that delves into the struggles of coal miners in Kentucky. The story follows Perry, a flawed but compelling main character, who becomes a symbol of hope amidst the bleak and harsh conditions faced by the miners. Burke's writing skillfully paints a realistic picture of the difficult lives and internal conflicts of the characters, capturing the fight for better job conditions and wages. The novel is a compelling narrative that explores themes of resilience, human spirit, and the desire for progress in the face of adversity.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of poverty, violence, and moral ambiguity, reflecting the harsh realities faced by the characters.
From The Publisher:
'A twisted spar whistled through the air like a cannon ball, cutting through the tops of two maple trees. The air became black with coal dust. As the last echo of the explosion began to thin in the distance, the boy could hear the leaves from the trees settling to the ground around him...'
In TO THE BRIGHT AND SHINING SUN James Lee Burke brings his brilliant feel for time and place to a stunning story of Appalachia in the early 1960s. Here Perry Woodson Hatfield James, torn between family honour and the lure of seedy "watering holes" must somehow survive the tempestuous journey from boyhood to manhood and escape the dark heritage of the Cumberland Mountains in this 'surging, bitter novel as authentic as moonshine' (New York Times)
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To the Bright and Shining Sun?
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