Often, they feature the unique Appalachian landscape as a backdrop. The mountains, forests, and small communities play a big role. For example, in many novels, characters might meet while hiking in the mountains or at a local community event in a small Appalachian town.
'The Secret Life of Bees' also has an Appalachian - like setting and a strong romantic undertone. It's about a young girl's journey of self - discovery and the relationships she forms, including a romantic one. The characters are well - developed and the story is both heartwarming and poignant.
One characteristic is the strong sense of place. The Appalachian setting becomes almost like a character itself. The novels often depict the hardships faced by the people, such as poverty and isolation. They also include a lot of local dialect, which gives a sense of authenticity. Moreover, there is a connection to nature that runs through many Appalachian novels, showing how the people interact with and depend on the natural environment. There are often stories of family traditions and the passing down of values from one generation to the next. Another aspect is the exploration of the clash between traditional Appalachian values and the encroachment of modernity.
Appalachian culture greatly influences its short fiction. The strong sense of community in Appalachia is often reflected in the stories, with characters relying on one another. The folk traditions, like music and storytelling around the fireplace, find their way into the fiction as well.
Another great one could be 'Wild' by Cheryl Strayed. It's about a woman's journey of self - discovery while hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, which has a similar spirit to the Appalachian Trail stories. It's a deeply personal and inspiring account.
They often feature the unique Appalachian landscape as a backdrop, which can be both beautiful and isolating. The characters usually have a strong connection to the land and local traditions.
One characteristic is the use of the natural setting. The Appalachian mountains are often portrayed as a menacing and isolating place. The thick forests, hidden valleys and old mines can be settings for terrifying events.
Well, Appalachian crime novels typically have a strong sense of place. The Appalachian area has its own distinctiveness in terms of dialect, which is often reflected in the dialogue. The crimes in these novels are sometimes related to the area's economic situation, such as illegal mining activities or disputes over land. And the protagonists usually have a deep connection to the region, whether they are trying to solve a crime that's threatening their community or are somehow involved in the criminal underworld that exists within the Appalachians.
One of the best Appalachian novels is 'Cold Mountain' by Charles Frazier. It vividly depicts the life during the Civil War in the Appalachian region. Another great one is 'Prodigal Summer' by Barbara Kingsolver which explores the Appalachian ecosystem and human relationships within it. Also, 'Christy' by Catherine Marshall is a classic Appalachian novel that tells the story of a young teacher in the mountains.
One well - known Appalachian fiction novel is 'Cold Mountain' by Charles Frazier. It tells the story of a Confederate soldier's journey back home during the Civil War. Another is 'The Dollmaker' by Harriette Arnow, which explores the life of a Kentucky family that migrates to Detroit. Also, 'Prodigal Summer' by Barbara Kingsolver has elements of Appalachian life and nature intertwined in its stories.