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Title: Storming Heaven: A Novel
Author: Denise Giardina
type of book: Historical Fiction
call number: Fic
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This book is strong in character, story, language and setting.
Summary:
Life was interrupted in West Virginia during the late 1800s and early
1900s by a monster that would destroy families, cultures and turn the lives of
many upside down. This monster was coal companies.
Seen through the eyes of four people - a town mayor, a nurse, a union organizer,
and an Italian immigrant - this novel takes the reader through the often-tragic
lives of the early West Virginia coal miners and their families as they struggle
to survive and attempt to unionize the mines.
I would recommend this book!
Why?
The characters are vivid. The language is superb, with the dialect of
Appalachia clear and beautiful, ringing off the pages into the reader's mind.
The description of Appalachia - both the beauty of the land before the coal
companies spoiled it, and the ugliness brought upon by them - and the
description of the time period make the story and the people in it come alive.
I have an interest in West Virginia history. Although this is a work of
fiction, it is an accurate portrayal of life in Appalachia during that time
period, making it a wonderful example of historical fiction.
Other suggested reading:
There is a sequel to this book: The Unquiet Earth.
Also, try The Midwife's Tale by Gretchen Moran Laskas
Employee Initials: ALSM
Review Date: May 2003
Read other reviews by this staff member.
