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Book Review: Sidle Creek by Jolene McIlwain
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
From the moment I laid eyes on the captivating cover of Sidle Creek, I knew I was in for a treat. Jolene McIlwain, a brilliant new voice in fiction, takes readers on a tender and truthful exploration of a small town nestled in the hills of Appalachia. With an alchemic blend of taut prose, gorgeous imagery, and deep sensitivity, Sidle Creek is a mesmerizing collection of short stories that will leave you captivated long after you turn the final page.
Set in the bruised, mined, and timbered hills of western Pennsylvania, McIlwain skillfully delves into the myths and stereotypes of the mining, mill, and farming towns she grew up in. These stories unfold in familiar settings such as diners, dive bars, town halls, and bait shops, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the daily lives of the townsfolk. Through her writing, McIlwain explores poignant themes of class, work, health, and trauma, unveiling the unexpected human connections that flourish within these small, close-knit communities.
One of the standout aspects of Sidle Creek is the masterful way in which McIlwain effortlessly weaves the wild beauty of the natural world into her narratives. The natural world becomes not only a backdrop but also a source of livelihood for the town's inhabitants. However, it is not immune to the vulnerabilities brought about by natural resource exploitation. This delicate balance between human existence and nature adds an extra layer of depth to the stories, making them all the more immersive and thought-provoking.
What truly sets Sidle Creek apart is its unique structure. McIlwain employs a mix of super short stories or flash fiction alongside longer ones, creating a dynamic reading experience that keeps you engaged from start to finish. Each story is written with precision and care, with beautiful descriptions of the settings that transport you to Sidle Creek itself. Whether it is a brief glimpse into a character's life or a more in-depth exploration, every story in this collection is compelling and thoughtful in its own unique way.
As someone who is not typically drawn to short story collections, Sidle Creek was a pleasant surprise. This book pushed me out of my comfort zone and rewarded me with an unforgettable reading experience. The author's ability to craft fully realized characters within such concise narratives is commendable. I found myself captivated by each story and know that I will be revisiting them often.
In conclusion, Jolene McIlwain's Sidle Creek is an exceptional collection that deserves a prominent place on every bookshelf. With its tender exploration of small-town life, its skillful examination of societal themes, and its enchanting blend of vivid prose and striking imagery, this book stands shoulder to shoulder with literary greats such as Annie Proulx, Joy Williams, and Louise Erdrich. If you are craving a compelling and thought-provoking read, I wholeheartedly recommend Sidle Creek.
ARC Via NetGalley
