Set in the racially charged South during the Depression, the novel follows a young girl and her older brother as they navigate their small town's societal norms and prejudices. Their father, a lawyer, is appointed to defend a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman, forcing the children to confront the harsh realities of racism and injustice. The story explores themes of morality, innocence, and the loss of innocence through the eyes of the young protagonists.

The novel tells the story of a wealthy, prominent Southern family, the Howlands, who have lived on the same plot of land in Alabama for over a century. The narrative is marked by the scandalous interracial relationship between the patriarch, William Howland, and his African-American housekeeper, Margaret Carmichael. Their secret relationship and the children it produces are kept hidden until William's death, when his granddaughter, Abigail, uncovers the truth, leading to a dramatic confrontation with the racially prejudiced townspeople. The book explores themes of race, family legacy, and the destructive power of bigotry.

This novel follows a teenager who enrolls in a boarding school in Alabama, seeking a 'Great Perhaps'. There, he meets a group of friends, including a captivating and enigmatic girl named Alaska. The narrative is divided into 'before' and 'after' sections, centering around a tragic event. It explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of adolescence, with the protagonist trying to understand and make sense of his experiences.

The novel centers on a young boy named Joel Knox who, after his mother's death, is sent to live with his estranged father at a decaying mansion in the rural South. Upon arrival, Joel encounters a bizarre blend of characters, including his morose father, his flamboyant cousin Randolph, and the childlike servant girl, Zoo. As Joel navigates through the eerie and decaying surroundings, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, confronting secrets about his family and his own identity, ultimately leading to revelations that challenge his understanding of love, sexuality, and acceptance.

This novel serves as both a sequel and a companion to a classic American story, exploring the complexities of racial tensions and personal integrity in the 1950s South. Set two decades after the events of its predecessor, it follows a young woman's return to her Alabama hometown from New York City to visit her aging father. During her stay, she confronts both personal and political issues, grappling with her father's attitudes toward race and her own feelings of disillusionment. The narrative delves into themes of moral growth, the clash between a more progressive society and traditional Southern values, and the painful process of challenging one's idols and ideals.