Jane Smiley

Jane Smiley is an American novelist known for her diverse works that often revolve around personal and family relationships. She won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1992 for her novel 'A Thousand Acres,' a modern retelling of Shakespeare's 'King Lear' set in a farming community in Iowa. Smiley's work is characterized by its emotional depth, detailed characterizations, and exploration of contemporary social issues.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. A Thousand Acres

    This novel is a modern retelling of Shakespeare's King Lear, set on a 1000-acre farm in Iowa. The story revolves around three daughters whose father decides to divide his land among them. The eldest two daughters are compliant with their father's decision, but the youngest daughter objects, leading to familial discord. The novel delves into themes of power, jealousy, and the dark secrets that can tear a family apart.

  2. 2. The Age Of Grief

    "The Age of Grief" is a poignant exploration of the complexities of love, marriage, and family life. Through a series of interconnected stories, the book delves into the inner workings of a seemingly stable marriage that is confronted with subtle emotional shifts and the inevitable challenges of intimacy and fidelity. The narrative is anchored by the perspective of a male dentist who begins to suspect his wife, also a dentist, of having an affair. As he grapples with his suspicions and the nuances of his own feelings, the story examines the intricate dance of trust, betrayal, and the bittersweet moments that define the human experience of grief and longing within the context of close relationships.