Barbara Kingsolver Books

Barbara Kingsolver is a novelist, essayist and poet. Her other works include The Bean Trees, The Poisonwood Bible and The Lacuna, which won the 2010 Orange Prize for Fiction.

Steven L. Hopp is a teacher at Emory and Henry College, specializing in Environmental Studies.

Camille Kingsolver, a graduate of Duke University, is an advocate for local food. She currently works in the mental-health field.

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1
 Books: Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver

Prodigal Summer

Barbara Kingsolver

What's Prodigal Summer about?

Prodigal Summer (2000) by Barbara Kingsolver is a stunning novel that weaves together the lives of three unforgettable characters, all connected by their deep love for the natural world. Set in the lush mountains of southern Appalachia, this book delves into themes of love, loss, and the intricate web of life. Kingsolver's beautiful prose and vivid storytelling make this a must-read for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking fiction.

Who should read Prodigal Summer?

  • Individuals who enjoy literary fiction with rich, vivid descriptions of nature
  • Readers who are interested in exploring themes of environmentalism and the interconnectedness of life
  • Those who appreciate well-developed characters and multiple intersecting storylines

2
 Books: Pigs in Heaven by Barbara Kingsolver

Pigs in Heaven

Barbara Kingsolver

What's Pigs in Heaven about?

Pigs in Heaven is a novel by Barbara Kingsolver that tells the story of a young girl named Turtle and her adoptive mother, Taylor Greer. When Turtle's biological Cherokee family reappears, a legal battle ensues over her custody, forcing both women to confront their pasts and make difficult decisions about their future. The book explores themes of family, identity, and the bond between mother and child.

Who should read Pigs in Heaven?

  • Readers interested in exploring themes of adoption, family, and identity
  • Those who appreciate richly developed characters and complex relationships
  • People who enjoy thought-provoking fiction that delves into social and cultural issues

What's The Poisonwood Bible about?

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver is a compelling novel that tells the story of the Price family, who move to the Belgian Congo in 1959 as missionaries. Through the perspectives of the four Price sisters and their mother, the book explores themes of colonialism, cultural clash, and the effects of Western influence on the African continent. It is a thought-provoking and beautifully written tale of family, faith, and the consequences of our actions.

Who should read The Poisonwood Bible?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and character-driven narratives
  • Those interested in exploring themes of colonialism, cultural clash, and redemption
  • People who appreciate rich and immersive storytelling that spans generations and continents

4
 Books: Small Wonder by Barbara Kingsolver

Small Wonder

Barbara Kingsolver

What's Small Wonder about?

Small Wonder is a collection of thought-provoking essays by Barbara Kingsolver that delves into the complexities of our modern world. With topics ranging from the environment and social justice to the power of literature, Kingsolver challenges readers to examine their own beliefs and actions. Through her eloquent prose, she offers a unique perspective on the wonders and struggles of our time.

Who should read Small Wonder?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking essays on environmental and social issues
  • Those interested in exploring the interconnectedness of nature and humanity
  • People who appreciate lyrical and insightful writing that challenges conventional wisdom

5
 Books: The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver

The Bean Trees

Barbara Kingsolver

What's The Bean Trees about?

The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver is a captivating novel that tells the story of a young woman who leaves her small town and embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Filled with rich characters and beautiful prose, it explores themes of family, friendship, and the power of choice. A must-read for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking fiction.

Who should read The Bean Trees?

  • Readers who enjoy literary fiction with strong female protagonists
  • Those interested in exploring themes of motherhood, friendship, and belonging
  • Individuals who appreciate richly detailed and evocative storytelling

6
 Books: The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver

The Lacuna

Barbara Kingsolver

What's The Lacuna about?

The Lacuna (2009) is a historical novel by Barbara Kingsolver that delves into the life of a young man named Harrison Shepherd. Set against the backdrop of Mexico and the United States during the 1930s and 1940s, the book explores themes of identity, politics, and the power of storytelling. Through Shepherd's experiences, the novel offers a unique perspective on key historical events and figures of the time.

Who should read The Lacuna?

  • Readers who enjoy historical fiction with richly developed characters
  • Those interested in the complex relationship between art and politics
  • People who appreciate a thought-provoking exploration of identity, belonging, and cultural differences

What's Unsheltered about?

Unsheltered (2018) by Barbara Kingsolver is a thought-provoking novel that weaves together two parallel stories set in different time periods. It explores themes of family, society, and the environment, as characters in both narratives grapple with the challenges of unsheltered lives. This captivating book offers a glimpse into the complexities of human existence and the resilience that can emerge in times of adversity.

Who should read Unsheltered?

  • Explorers of historical and contemporary societal challenges
  • Individuals curious about the interplay between personal and global crises
  • Readers who appreciate thought-provoking narratives with multifaceted characters

8
 Books: The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver

The Poisonwood Bible

Barbara Kingsolver

What's The Poisonwood Bible about?

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver is a captivating novel that tells the story of the Price family, who move to the Belgian Congo in 1959 as missionaries. Told from the perspectives of the four Price daughters and their mother, the book explores themes of colonization, cultural clash, and the effects of Western influence on a foreign land. It is a thought-provoking and beautifully written tale that delves into the complexities of family and faith.

Who should read The Poisonwood Bible?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and complex narratives

  • Those interested in exploring themes of colonialism, cultural clash, and personal transformation

  • Individuals who appreciate richly developed characters and multiple perspectives