Ron Rash's 2023 novel "The Caretaker" affirms that he's one of America's best writers.
Returning to the author's familiar Appalachian Mountain territory of western North Carolina, Rash's 20th book and first novel in 10 years fully displays his narrative power.
Set in 1951 with the backdrop of the Korean War, "The Caretaker" tells a compelling story of family tragedy, cruelty toward the disabled, class prejudice and the endurance of love and compassion.
As with his past novels, Rash showcases memorable characters, an entrancing plot, evocative language and a deep love for North Carolina's natural beauty.
The book takes in place in Blowing Rock, a fictional North Carolina small town in which a cast of memorable characters exhibit a full range of human emotions and dramatic acts.
Blackburn Gant, the novel's main character, is the caretaker of the town's cemetery. Facially disfigured and partially crippled by childhood polio, he possesses a noble and compassionate personality, despite suffering the unkind stares of strangers and bullying from town toughs.
His best friend, Jacob Hampton, alienates his wealthy parents by marrying the lower class Naomi Clarke, who's vilified by Hampton's father and mother and the town.
When Jake's drafted and sent to Korea, Gant cares for the pregnant Naomi, who outrages Blowing Rock residents by wearing provocative clothing and going alone to movies and businesses.
Jake's wounding in the war, his parents' desperate attempt to end his marriage and win back his love, and Gant's continual ennoblement accelerate with spellbinding force.
Rash's novels, stories and poems transcend the boundaries of his regional territory.
Comments
You can follow this conversation by subscribing to the comment feed for this post.